American Hellenic Institute urges increased US security cooperation with Greece and Cyprus

The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) submitted testimony to the US House of Representatives subcommittee regarding the fiscal year 2027 budget. President Nick Larigakis recommended maintaining and expanding military assistance to Greece and Cyprus, citing their roles as strategic partners in the Eastern Mediterranean. Specific funding requests include $1.8 million for IMET for Greece, $500,000 for Cyprus, $25 million for ERIP, and $6 million in FMF for Greece. The proposal emphasizes the importance of the '3+1' framework involving the US, Greece, Cyprus, and Israel for regional stability. Furthermore, the AHI stressed the necessity of continued support for the UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus (UNFICYP). The testimony highlighted strategic assets such as Souda Bay and the port of Alexandroupolis as vital to US energy and security objectives. AHI also suggested that US assistance to Turkey should be conditioned upon its adherence to international law and NATO obligations. The report identifies the region as a critical crossroads influenced by ongoing conflicts and energy security concerns.