The potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency is sparking optimism among Greek and Cypriot officials, who anticipate new opportunities for regional stability and economic collaboration, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.
During a panel discussion at the Delphi Forum, hosted by the Hellenic American Leadership Council in Washington, D.C., senior officials from Greece and Cyprus emphasized the significance of sustained U.S. involvement in the region. The discussion, moderated by Breitbart News Washington Bureau Chief Matthew Boyle, highlighted prospects for expanding the Abraham Accords and strengthening geopolitical partnerships.
Enhancing Regional Alliances and Peace Efforts
Greek Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexandra Papadopoulou welcomed renewed U.S. engagement in the Eastern Mediterranean, stressing the strategic importance of American leadership.
“For years, there was concern that the U.S. would step back, leading to instability,” Papadopoulou said. “It is reassuring to see renewed American interest. However, regional nations must also take responsibility and collaborate with the new U.S. administration.”
She highlighted the strong ties between the U.S., Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt, emphasizing that this diplomatic network could facilitate the expansion of the Abraham Accords—historic agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and Arab nations.
Cyprus’s Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Nicholas Ioannides, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to regional stability through the U.S.-backed “3+1” framework, which includes Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the United States.
“The Abraham Accords were a major milestone of the first Trump administration, and efforts to revitalize them are a positive step,” Ioannides said. “Cyprus, as the EU’s southeastern nation, is a vital strategic partner for both the U.S. and Israel. We are fully prepared to support renewed peace efforts.”
He further emphasized Cyprus’s role as a humanitarian hub and a bridge for diplomatic efforts, adding, “We can help expand what might be called ‘Abraham Accords 2.0.’”
Economic Cooperation and the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor
Beyond diplomacy and security, officials also pointed to economic initiatives that could transform regional trade and development. Papadopoulou discussed the potential of the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), an ambitious trade route aimed at serving as an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
“This corridor presents a unique opportunity,” she stated. “Looking at the map, the path is clear—India, the Gulf nations, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, and then onto Europe and the United States. Greece and Cyprus can serve as the crucial link connecting these regions.”
She emphasized Greece’s strong economic ties with Israel and India, along with its expanding partnerships with Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as key factors in making the corridor a reality. “This initiative would not only boost economic openness but also reinforce our strategic alliance with the United States.”
Julie Rayman, Managing Director of Policy and Political Affairs at the American Jewish Committee, echoed the region’s vast economic potential but pointed out the impact of the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel’s economy.
“The original Abraham Accords were built on economic prosperity, largely driven by Israel’s economic strength,” Rayman explained. “However, the tragic events of October 7 have affected Israel’s economy. While it is recovering, this must be factored into future agreements.”
A Vision for a Unified Eastern Mediterranean
Looking ahead, Greek and Cypriot officials underscored the need to align political and economic strategies to foster regional stability. Papadopoulou described the Eastern Mediterranean not as a standalone entity but as a crucial extension of Europe and the broader Middle East.
“This is about more than just the Middle East—it’s about the entire Eastern Mediterranean, spanning from the Gulf to the Balkans and into Europe,” she asserted. “The foundations are already in place; now we must work together to turn this vision into reality.”
With strong backing for renewed American leadership, Greece and Cyprus are positioning themselves as key players in shaping a more stable and economy integrated Mediterranean region.
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