Washington, 15 October 2021 (TDI): On Thursday, US State Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias renewed the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) at the State Department, Washington. The two countries renewed the agreement for five years, aiming to strengthen the US-Greek security and defense relations.
During his opening remarks, Greek’s Foreign Minister expressed contentment over the agreement’s extension and reiterated the shared defense objectives of both states. He also maintained that the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement aims to defend the states’ sovereignty and territorial integrity against any form of armed aggression.
I signed with my US counterpart @SecBlinken the 2nd Protocol of Amendment to the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (#MDCA), opening new prospects for deepening the strategic relationship – rooted in shared values and principles – between 🇬🇷🇺🇸. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/zX2w9TMPRd
— Nikos Dendias (@NikosDendias) October 14, 2021
Meanwhile, Secretary Blinken exhibited great pleasure over the extension of MDCA, besides hoping for the Greek Parliament to approve the Amendment Protocol shortly. He further added that apart from bolstering the US-Greek strategic capabilities, the pact also aims to secure the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Regarding Washington’s bilateral relationship with Athens, Secretary Binken appreciated the country’s investments in the defense sector; He also stated that Greece has partnered with the US on multiple fronts, including efforts to tackle climate change, increasing bilateral trade, and enhancing the cultural and educational connections.