The developments in the Southeast Mediterranean, the Middle East and North Africa dominated in the 45-minute discussion between Greek Minister of National Defense Dimitris Avramopoulos and US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel at the Pentagon.
Both men expressed their concern about the developing situation in Syria, with Mr. Avramopoulos insisting that a political solution is preferable to a military intervention, which could have unforeseen consequences.
What became clear during the discussion was the American interest in developing bilateral cooperation, within a NATO framework, with an emphasis on protecting the Mediterranean Sea. This could be achieved through joint military exercises (particularly Special Forces and counter-terrorism efforts), in light of the NATO reforms in 2014.
As part of the development of relations, the USA is prepared to donate to Greece surplus military equipment, such as Chinook helicopters and other weapons systems. The details on this deal will be determined when the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Martin Dempsey visits Greece in mid September.
Mr. Hagel recognized the vital role of the naval base of Souda in Crete and other American military bases and installations in Greece, such as the upgraded American Air Force base in Kalamata.
As these bases were used by the American and allied forces in the recent operations in Libya, there is an interest in further expanding and developing them. This is evident by the Pentagon’s press release, where the importance of the Souda base during Operation: Unified Protector was highlighted.
The American Secretary of Defense praised the courage and determination of the Greek people, as well as the important role Greece can play as a stabilization factor in the region.
