CYA Hosts Discussion on the Future of Greek-American Relations, Organized by ELIAMEP. cover cya blog eliamep fa23 1
28 Sep 2023

CYA Hosts Discussion on the Future of Greek-American Relations, Organized by ELIAMEP.

On Tuesday 26 September, CYA had the pleasure of hosting a policy paper presentation by Katerina Sokou, a distinguished Theodore Couloumbis Research Fellow specializing in Greek-American relations at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP). During her presentation, Sokou unveiled her comprehensive analysis of Greece’s evolving bilateral ties with the United States. Titled “Greece-US reactions: Capitalizing on a generational high,” Sokou’s paper delves into Greece’s strategic utilization of this relationship to advance its national security objectives and obligations.

CYA Hosts Discussion on the Future of Greek-American Relations, Organized by ELIAMEP. Screenshot 2023 09 28 at 5.40.19 PM

In her paper, Sokou emphasized Greece’s regional prominence, its support for NATO’s Eastern Flank, and its role in enhancing energy security. Sokou sees Greece as an essential US ally, poised for a more prominent global security role. She also stressed the importance of maintaining cooperation and people-to-people ties. When speaking on security issues, she cautioned against potential disruptions, including American isolationism and Greek nationalism. The paper also addressed Turkey’s role in Greece’s national security and potential F-16 sales. It suggested maintaining a defense advantage without escalating tensions.

An engaging discussion followed, between Sokou and Professor Thanos Dokos, National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister, moderated by ERT news anchor Apostolos Magiriadis.

CYA Hosts Discussion on the Future of Greek-American Relations, Organized by ELIAMEP. Screenshot 2023 09 28 at 4.28.46 PM

Maria Olson, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Greece, and Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, addressed the event. Loukas Tsoukalis, President of the Board, ELIAMEP, offered opening remarks and Alexis Phylactopoulos, Executive Chair of the CYA Board of Trustees, welcomed everyone present with a brief greeting on behalf of CYA that hosted this engaging discussion.

Many CYA students taking classes in Political Science had the unique opportunity to attend. 

You can read more about the event and Sokou’s paper in this article by e-Kathimerini (link).

To watch the full event please click here