Washington’s military cooperation with Athens constitutes a cornerstone of security and stability in Europe, stated U.S. President Donald Trump in his proclamation for Greek Independence Day. In this context, it is highlighted that the permanent presence of American naval forces in the Gulf of Souda and the bilateral training exercises enhance the combat capabilities of both nations.

As the statement notes, “Greece is one of the oldest friends and strategic partners of our nation, as well as a valued NATO ally.”

President Trump signed the proclamation during the annual reception held at the White House in celebration of March 25th, met with cheers from Greek-Americans and prominent members of the diaspora. The proclamation refers to the ongoing efforts to deepen U.S.-Greece relations across several key strategic sectors.

See photos from last night’s event:

“We appreciate Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ support in our economic and diplomatic cooperation, as we create opportunities for partnership in key areas such as energy, science, technology, shipping, logistics, and defense,” the proclamation reads.

President Trump praised the Greek-American community, describing its wide-reaching influence and contribution to American society.

President Trump’s proclamation for Greek Independence Day:
“On March 25, 1821, inspired by the motto ‘Freedom or Death,’ Greek revolutionaries launched their war of independence against the Ottoman Empire. Their hard-fought and victorious struggle led to the establishment of a sovereign Greek state and a national homeland for Greece. On the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence Day, we honor the heroic fight for freedom and the enduring democratic ideals that continue to inspire the world.

America is inseparably bound to both ancient and modern Greece. We are linked by history and tradition, by the struggle for self-determination, emancipation, and rebirth. The founding fathers of our democracy drew inspiration from Greek philosophers and statesmen to shape the doctrines of our own republic, now enshrined in our Constitution. Our national character has been shaped in part by the indelible influence of Greek contributions to the arts and architecture, language and literature, as well as academic and military tradition.

Today, across the United States, generations of Greek Americans enrich our neighborhoods and communities with a vibrant cultural heritage rooted in family, faith, hospitality, and civic responsibility.

Greece is one of the oldest friends and strategic partners of our nation, as well as a valued ally in NATO. We appreciate Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ support in our economic and diplomatic cooperation, as we build opportunities for partnership in vital areas such as energy, science, technology, shipping, logistics, and defense. The permanent presence of naval forces in Souda Bay and our bilateral military exercises enhance our military capabilities and reflect our mutual commitment to joint military cooperation as a cornerstone of security and stability in Europe.

On this day, we celebrate Greek independence, the people who share in the Greek heritage around the world, and the enduring friendship between our like-minded nations that cherish democracy, patriotism, prosperity, and peace.

Now, therefore, I, Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”