The United States intends to deepen its partnership with Greece in the shipbuilding and shipping sectors, US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle said on Tuesday after meeting with Shipping and Island Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias.
The discussion focused on expanding strategic cooperation in an industry where Greek-owned shipping holds a leading global position.
“Strong allies deserve and will receive strong partnerships, based on respect, reciprocity and results,” Guilfoyle said, noting that work toward closer cooperation has been underway for months, “before my arrival.”
Guilfoyle, who officially took office in early November, stressed that Greece has long been a key US partner, and that shipping remains central because of its importance for the stability and growth of global trade. Greece’s contribution to world shipping, she said, ensures its role as both a regional and global hub will continue to expand.
Guilfoyle also referred to President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at reviving US maritime capacity, which includes working with allies to strengthen American shipbuilding. She said Greece and Greek companies have already responded to that call.
After the meeting, Kikilias and Guilfoyle visited the Hellas Liberty at the port of Piraeus. Built in the United States during World War II, the vessel now serves as a floating museum of Greek maritime history.
Kikilias highlighted the ship’s symbolic significance, noting that it took part in the Normandy landings and that American shipyards were producing similar vessels every two days in 1943.