The US Congress’ House Foreign Affairs Committee has approved a bipartisan legislation to strengthen defense cooperation between the United States and Greece, reauthorizing International Military Education and Training (IMET) assistance to Athens for five years.
The move aims to improve military interoperability, training, and cooperation amid ongoing regional security challenges, including developments in Iran, Turkey, and Cyprus. The legislation would authorize $1.8 million in assistance to Greece in each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031.
The US-Greece Defense Cooperation Advancement Act, was introduced by Representatives Chris Pappas, Gus Bilirakis, Dina Titus, and Nicole Malliotakis, co-chairs and vice co-chairs of the Hellenic Caucus.
“Greece is a steadfast democratic ally of the United States, a pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, and an essential partner in ensuring regional security and prosperity. IMET assistance strengthens cooperation, training, and interoperability between our Armed Forces, a critical component of our bilateral relationship,” said Congressman Pappas.
“Greece has long been a reliable NATO ally, consistently meeting its defense spending commitments and serving as a key pillar of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. This legislation builds upon our existing defense cooperation by enhancing joint military training, expanding security assistance, and reinforcing our shared capacity to address emerging threats,”said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “At a time of increasing global uncertainty, it is more important than ever that we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with trusted partners like Greece.”
