April 7, 2026
“Thank you for being with us today as we mark a significant occasion in the history of the defense ties between the United States and Greece.
Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, the United States of America is deeply committed to advancing peace through strength. In Greece, I see a valued partner in these efforts. A partner that shares our resolve to defend to the utmost a bold vision for the future.
Our two great nations enjoy a partnership that began over 200 years ago and continues today – stronger, deeper and more vital than ever. We are committed to making sure we have the best, most agile, most lethal fighting forces in the world, ready to tackle the challenges of the future.
Today, we are bringing our partnership to a historic new level. I am honored to officially announce that Greece will be paired with the great State of Florida through the United States National Guard State Partnership Program.
I want to thank President Donald J. Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth for their leadership and support for this investment in our shared future.
I cannot think of a better partner for this new pairing than the State of Florida. Both Florida and Greece feature extensive coastlines, enjoy economies closely tied to tourism and agriculture, and are on the frontlines of border security. Florida is a major player in America’s aerospace and defense industries and boasts excellent universities. It is also home to a thriving Greek diaspora community.
For Greece and Florida, this pairing opens up important new opportunities for cooperation across the military, academia, commerce, and civil society. It truly is a whole-of-society partnership built for the long term. The pairing means greater collaboration in areas that will make our people safer and our nations stronger. Areas like joint military training and readiness, maritime security, cyber defense, infrastructure protection and natural disaster preparedness, including wildfire response and emergency planning.
The United States of America is proud to have allies like Greece. I look forward to working with Minister Dendias and my dear friend Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to bring the partnership between our two great nations to even greater heights.
God bless you. God bless Greece. And God bless the United States of America.”
