Greece’s pivotal role in the energy sector—following the recent agreements signed—was highlighted at the 1st Knowledge Forum on Energy and Sustainability, titled “Reshaping the Energy Transition.”

At the forum, particular emphasis was placed on the commercial agreement governing the flow of U.S. LNG through Greece—the first of its kind for the region—as well as on new deals that open a fresh chapter for the country’s role in energy routes toward Central Europe and Ukraine.

Guilfoyle: “A historic moment for U.S.–Greece relations”

U.S. Ambassador Gilfoyle described the current period as a “historic moment,” referencing the P-TEC initiative and the participation of 850 government and business leaders from across Central and Eastern Europe. This level of engagement, she said, demonstrates the potential for cooperation when allies share a common goal: ensuring abundant, reliable, and affordable energy.

She made particular reference to the long-term commercial agreement for U.S. LNG to transit through Greece. “This is not just an energy contract—it is a strategic accomplishment that reshapes the landscape in Southeast Europe,” she noted, adding that the United States supports Greece’s objective of fully phasing out Russian gas by 2027.

Gilfoyle also highlighted the importance of the ExxonMobil–Energean–HELLENiQ ENERGY agreements for offshore exploration in the Ionian Sea and south of Crete, describing them as crucial investments that reinforce Greece’s role as a gateway for energy diversification in the wider region. Washington, she stressed, views Greece as a “frontline player” with the potential to become an energy hub influencing not only the Eastern Mediterranean but also Central Europe.

In a more personal remark, she referred to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis as a “friend” and noted that he has aptly described the latest Greek-American initiatives as “milestones” for the country’s energy future.

Papastavrou: “We have a role—we speak the same language as the U.S.”

Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou praised the ambassador’s decisive contribution to the recent agreements. “She trusted us before she even arrived in Greece,” he said, emphasizing that U.S. support boosted Athens’ confidence and accelerated negotiations.

He noted that bilateral cooperation over the past ten months “began with momentum” and is already producing results—whether in LNG, hydrocarbon investments, or the upgrading of the Vertical Corridor. “We are still at the beginning, but it is a strong beginning,” he stated, underlining that Greece and the U.S. “speak the same language” on the green transition and energy security.

However, he also pointed to outstanding issues, such as completing environmental permits for the ExxonMobil and HELLENiQ ENERGY projects, as well as the need to prevent the re-entry of Russian gas through indirect flows.