NEW YORK, NY – September 24, 2025 – More than 250 guests gathered at the Union League Club in New York City for a seated luncheon honoring Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, hosted by 28 Greek-American organizations. The event celebrated Greece’s economic resurgence, deepening U.S.–Greece relations, and recognized five prominent Greek-American leaders.
John Catsimatidis Welcomes the Prime Minister
Prominent businessman and philanthropist John Catsimatidis delivered a warm introduction, emphasizing the historic bond between Greece and the United States and the unique role the Greek-American community plays in supporting both nations.
Mitsotakis Showcases Greece’s Transformation
Prime Minister Mitsotakis delivered a powerful speech outlining Greece’s progress since the financial crisis, highlighting:
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Economic Growth: Greece is now among the top-performing economies in Europe, attracting record foreign investment and becoming a hub for renewable energy, logistics, education, and healthcare.
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Tourism Boom: Over 100 weekly nonstop flights now connect Greece and the United States, reflecting record-breaking tourism numbers.
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Reversing the Brain Drain: More young professionals are returning to Greece, drawn by new opportunities and renewed optimism.
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Job Fair Announcement: On December 7, Greece’s Ministry of Labor will host a major job fair in the U.S. with 50 top Greek employers actively recruiting talent from abroad.
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Defense & Security: Greece continues major investments in defense, including procurement of F-35 fighter jets, modernization of the F-16 fleet, and new French frigates, while strengthening regional security.
“All of this progress,” Mitsotakis said, “would not have been possible without political stability. The Greek people placed their trust in us by granting an absolute majority, and it is my duty to honor that trust with action and results.”
Honoring Distinguished Greek-American Leaders
Mike Manatos introduced the luncheon’s honorees, five remarkable individuals whose achievements have left a lasting mark on business, culture, and faith:
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John Calamos – Founder of Calamos Investments and a global philanthropist supporting education and Hellenic causes.
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Nicholas Gage – Celebrated author of Eleni and tireless advocate for preserving Greece’s history and memory.
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Dean Metropoulos – Legendary entrepreneur and investor behind iconic brand revivals, dedicated to philanthropy.
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Nikos Metropoulos – Business leader and philanthropist advancing educational initiatives and U.S.–Greece relations.
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Paulette Poulos – Executive Director of Leadership 100, recognized for decades of faith-based philanthropic leadership.
Each honoree was applauded for strengthening the Hellenic-American connection and serving as role models for future generations.
Strengthening U.S.–Greece Relations
The event underscored the growing partnership between the United States and Greece in areas such as technology, education, energy, and defense.
“Your support, through good times and bad, has always been a source of strength for our nation,” Prime Minister Mitsotakis concluded. “Thank you for your unwavering commitment, and I look forward to seeing all of you again next year.”
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