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Thursday, February 13, 2025

Greece and Israel Strengthen Ties in Regional Cooperation Talks

Greece and Israel reaffirmed their strategic partnership and discussed regional developments during a meeting between Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis and his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in Jerusalem on Monday.

Saar emphasized the deepening friendship between the two nations, stating:

“Greece is a natural friend and partner of Israel, sharing common opportunities and challenges with us. I was pleased to host Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Irapteridis in Jerusalem today. We discussed developments in the region and strengthening relations between the countries.”

Sports Hosting and Bilateral Cooperation

One of the key topics raised by Saar was the resumption of Greek sports teams playing in Israel, following security improvements in the country. He urged Greece to assist in restoring international sports matches to Israel.

The Greek Foreign Ministry, in a post on X, noted that discussions also covered the ceasefire agreement and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas. Gerapetritis welcomed the development while emphasizing the need for all hostages to return home.

Expanding Defense, Energy, and Economic Ties

Beyond security matters, Greece and Israel have significantly expanded their strategic cooperation in recent years, with a particular focus on defense, energy, and economic development.

Defense Cooperation

Greece is emerging as a potential major buyer of Israeli military technology, as Greece is intrested in acquiring drones, advanced missile systems, air defense platforms, and other security infrastructure. This collaboration reflects a broader regional shift, with Athens seeking to modernize its military capabilities while strengthening its defense alignment with Israel and other Western allies.

The two nations have also conducted multiple joint military exercises, enhancing their interoperability and preparing for potential regional security threats. This growing defense partnership which Turkey views as a challenge to Turkish expansionst policies, is a counterbalance to geopolitical tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Energy and Infrastructure

Energy cooperation has been another pillar of Greece-Israel relations, particularly in natural gas exploration and pipeline projects. Both countries are involved in initiatives aimed at developing the Eastern Mediterranean’s vast energy reserves, with Greece playing a key role in connecting Israeli gas to European markets.

Projects like the EastMed pipeline, which aims to transport gas from Israel and Cyprus to Greece and beyond, highlight the strategic importance of their energy alliance. In addition, both nations have explored renewable energy collaborations, including investments in solar and hydrogen projects.

Economic and Innovation Partnerships

Aside from defense and energy, Israel and Greece are expanding ties in technology, tourism, and trade. Israeli firms have increasingly invested in Greek startups, and both governments are promoting cooperation in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and medical research.

Tourism has also been a major growth area, with direct flights and joint tourism campaigns boosting travel between the two nations. As Israel seeks to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with European partners, Greece has emerged as a key ally and gateway to the EU market.

Greece and Israel’s strategic cooperation has evolved rapidly, reflecting shared geopolitical interests and economic opportunities and is set to play a crucial role in shaping security, energy, and defense policies in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond.

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