New Saudi-Greek strategic council: Boost for defense, energy, EU ties
Riyadh and Athens are steadily expanding their ties to include military, political and economic dimensions, driven by a shared commitment to regional stability and economic diversification.
In a significant step toward strengthening Greek-Saudi relations, Athens has established a High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council with Riyadh at a time of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis co-chaired an event in Al-Ula on Monday, marking the inaugural meeting of the council, along with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. During the meeting, Mitsotakis highlighted the interconnected security of Europe and the Middle East, stressing that both regions' stability is mutually dependent.
This marks Greece’s first major diplomatic move in advancing relations with a Middle Eastern country. Mitsotakis emphasized that “Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner for Greece and the EU and a key player for stability and prosperity in the entire region.”
He also warned that ongoing tensions in Gaza — where a ceasefire was finally reached this week — posed a risk of destabilization in the Middle East, underlining the importance of Greece and Saudi Arabia sharing the “same vision for security and peace.”
