The energy sector is the main pillar of the US-Greece strategic relationship, noted US Embassy in Athens Charge d’ Affaires Maria Olson, speaking at the 7th Thessaloniki Summit on Monday.
Important American investments in Greece were also mentioned by Olson, such as the one signed by US International Development Finance Corporation CEO Scott Nathan with ONEX for funding the streamlining of the Elefsina shipyards with 125 mln dollars, in view of creating not only an efficient shipyard sector but also a strong energy hub, Olson pointed out.
This investment, she added, will significantly raise the Elefsina shipyards’ ability to repair ships and support LNG carrier vessels, given the fact that US exports of liquefied natural gas to Greece has increased significantly, she underlined, boosting energy security and diversification.
On November 13, Olson added, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Greek government for the imprevement of energy security and cooperation in the Western Balkans.
This collaboration is expected to boost cooperation among energy providers in Greece, Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo, in view of unifying electricity markets and creating a more interconnected, secure region, Olson noted.
Finally, the American diplomat said that another US-Greece cooperation that stands out is the one between US and Greek universities, especially ones in northern Greece.
Greece has jumped to the 8th top destination for US students studying abroad, from 17th position in 2018, she added, while a total of 2,539 Greek students attended US academic institutions during the past academic year, an increase of 5.5% compared to the previous year. Moreover, at least 500 Americans are currently studying at Anatolia College in Thessaloniki.
The 7th Thessaloniki Summit is organized by the Federation of Industries of Greece (SVE) in cooperation with the Dephi Economic Forum, under the auspices of the President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou.
SOURCE; ANA-MPA
