06/09/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/09/2021 15:02
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) in introducing new legislation to bolster the United States' defense partnership with Greece. The bipartisan U.S.-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act of 2021 seeks to bolster support for Greek military modernization, authorize new transfers of American military equipment, and foster increased multilateral engagement among the legislatures of Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States.
'This bipartisan legislation will continue to enhance defense cooperation with Greece, a valued NATO ally,' Rubio said. 'By extending Foreign Military Assistance to Greece and establishing an inter parliamentary partnership with democratic countries in the Eastern Mediterranean, this legislation reaffirms our strong commitment to the region at a time when malign actors are working to undermine international security and stability.'
'As a reliable NATO ally, Greece plays a critical role in promoting security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. The 200th anniversary of Greek independence reminds us of the long history of U.S.-Greece cooperation based on our shared commitment to democratic values, and we must continue building that cooperation in the years to come,' Menendez said. 'In order to ensure that the Eastern Mediterranean remains secure, the U.S. must bolster its defense relationship with Greece by supporting Greece's efforts to modernize its armed forces. This legislation seeks to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the U.S. and Greece in order to advance our shared values, promote security cooperation, and support a secure Eastern Mediterranean for years to come.'
Key Provisions of the legislation are listed below.
Support for Greek Military Modernization:
Transfer of American Military Equipment to Greece:
Parliamentary Engagement within the 3+1 Framework: