Defence Minister Nikos Dendias visits Chicago and makes address at the award event in honour of David Harris, organised by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) and the Hellenic[...]

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Defence Minister Nikos Dendias visits Chicago and makes address at the award event in honour of David Harris, organised by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) and the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC)

January 24, 2025

The Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, visited Chicago, where he made an address yesterday, Tuesday 23 January 2025, at the special award event organized at the National Hellenic Museum, by the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) and the American Jewish Committee (AJC), in honour of David Harris, who was Executive Director of the AJC from 1990 to 2022.

"It is my honour to deliver a speech here today at the Hellenic Museum in Chicago. There is no better place to highlight the significance of today's event, as this institution stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage that unites the Greek community. It also serves as a bridge for fostering relationships across cultures making it an ideal place to reflect on the ties between the Greek and Jewish diaspora communities in the United States. Both communities have demonstrated a strong sense of preserving their identity while significantly contributing to the advancement and prosperity of American society", Mr. Dendias highlighted.

In his speech, the Minister also underlined that David Harris played a pivotal role in establishing communication channels and close cooperation between the members of the Greek and Jewish diaspora communities in the United States. Two communities that maintain their identity, while significantly contributing to the advancement and prosperity of American society.

"Mr. David Harris, a prominent American Jewish leader, guided the American Jewish Committee for three decades as its Executive Director. A person dedicated to combating anti-Semitism, bridging differences and creating new friendships. A strong advocate of human values. As Executive Director, Mr. Harris expanded and developed the AJC into the impactful organization it is today.

During his tenure and leadership, our two diasporas significantly enhanced their cooperation, contributing to the strengthening of Greek-American-Israeli relations on both a bilateral and trilateral basis. Mr. Harris, my dear David, I offer you my warmest congratulations and express my deepest gratitude for your efforts in fostering a long-lasting and true friendship between our communities", Mr. Dendias stated.

He added that this cooperation was also the basis for the strengthening of the relations and cooperation between Greece, Israel, the USA and Cyprus. "The contributions between Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) and the American-Jewish Committee (AJC) to fostering the relationship is of paramount importance. Their shared vision and efforts have created a powerful coalition addressing regional challenges, promoting stability, and championing democratic values. By promoting cultural exchanges, joint advocacy efforts and educational initiatives, HALC and AJC have successfully demonstrated the value of collaboration. The relationship has also served as a springboard - and continues to do so - for close cooperation between USA, Greece, Israel and Cyprus. Greece is geographically positioned at the crossroads of three continents and various ancient civilizations. We are a nation of seafarers reaching out to other civilizations and cultures by building bridges of peaceful coexistence and understanding. By tradition, we maintain excellent relations with the Arab world, Israel and USA", Mr. Dendias highlighted.

The Greek Minister also referred to Greece's strong strategic relationship with the United States, both during Trump's previous administration, and Biden's administration. "Our strategic relationship with the United States has reached an all-time high in recent years. In October 2019, during the Trump administration, I signed the first amendment of the Mutual Defence Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) with Mike Pompeo. In 2021, I signed the second amendment with Antony Blinken. The bipartisan acknowledgment underscores that Greece is a true ally, a pillar of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean - and consistently upholds International Law and the principles of the International Law of the Sea", he underlined.

The Minister of National Defence also stated that the relations between Greece and Israel have undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. "Greece was among the first countries to condemn the terrorist attacks by Hamas on Israel. We supported Israel's right to self-defence (in accordance with International Law), and advocated for the unconditional release of the hostages. Simultaneously, we worked closely with allies like Cyprus, to ensure the continued transport of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Fortunately, today, we see a glimmer of hope with the recent ceasefire agreement, which I welcome as a potential starting point for a new era of peace and stability in the region", Mr. Dendias declared in his address.

He also reminded that, as Minister of Foreign Affairs, he prioritised the establishment of strategic alliances in the Eastern Mediterranean: "Initiatives such as the 3+1 agreements involving Greece, Israel, Cyprus, and the United States, have become cornerstones of regional security and cooperation, a paramount example of our excellent partnership. In a world filled with constant challenges and the resurgence of reformist powers, we must remain prepared. As I have previously emphasized, the Greek government has established a robust network of alliance with our friends, allies, and partners".

As regards the work done at the Hellenic Ministry of National Defence, Mr. Dendias highlighted that the implementation of "Agenda 2030" is ongoing. "It is the most transformative reform in the history of the Hellenic Armed Forces. This ambitious process is already underway, with various phases actively being executed. From the establishment of our innovation Hub (ELKAK) and the modernization of the conscription model to the comprehensive upgrading of our defense capabilities across land, air, and sea. We are ensuring that Greece's deterrent power reaches unprecedented levels of advancement", he added.

The Greek Minister also stated "as leaders, we have the utmost responsibility to uphold democratic values and provide our people with a safe environment free of prejudice, racism, and extremism". On this same subject, he added: "Personally, I have always being committed to this path. A little over a decade ago, during Greece's economic crisis, a small extremist group serving a Nazi ideology sought to exploit the hardships of our people. As Minister of Public Order and Citizens Protection, I initiated and spearheaded the necessary legal and investigative measures that led to the designation of the "Golden Dawn" Party as a criminal organization. The Greek judicial system convicted all leading members, sending a powerful message that extremism and hatred have no place in Greek society. This landmark decision upheld the rule of Law and resonated strongly with both the Greek and Jewish communities. Antisemitism cannot and will not be tolerated. In Greece, the Jewish community has lived in peace and harmony, contributing greatly to Greek society".

Concluding, Mr. Dendias affirmed:

"Together, AJC and HALC have built bridges not only between nations but also between people, fostering mutual understanding and respect. The cooperation between AJC, HALC, and our diasporas, combined with the contributions of charismatic leaders like David Harris and many of you here today, allows us to remain optimistic about a brighter shared future and a more peaceful and prosperous world".

Addresses were also made by the Executive Director of HALC Endy Zemenides, AJC member Allan Rich, and the Consul General of Greece in Chicago Manos Koubarakis. The event was attended by several cadres and members of the Greek and Jewish diaspora. Before the event, the Greek Minister was toured at the National Hellenic Museum.

Earlier yesterday, the Minister of National Defence was awarded a Commendation of the State of Illinois, by the Greek-American Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, for his contribution to the Greek-American relations, currently as Minister of National Defence, as well as in his former capacity as Minister of Foreign Affairs.

In addition, Mr. Dendias visited the Holy Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in Chicago, as well as the "Korais" Diaspora School, with more than 200 students, mainly of Greek origin. At the discussion he had with the teachers and members of the Parents' association, the Minister announced that, following a collaboration with the Hellenic Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, the school will be adopted by the Hellenic War Museum.