The US ambassador, George Tsounis, spoke of “Greece’s economic miracle” during his speech at the ATHENS RIVIERA FORUM 2024, who noted that “the US has rediscovered Greece”, the dynamic revival of its market brings investments by American companies and bilateral relations are at the best level ever.

“Greece is experiencing an economic transformation. From a country that was ready to be kicked out of the Eurozone, to the fastest growing economy in Europe in the last three years. It is a huge achievement, which, however, shows what Greek determination means, what Greek spirit and Greek resilience means”, said Mr. Tsounis and continued: “I am very proud to be an ambassador here, in this country, to promote the bilateral relations between Greece and the USA, which are at the best level they have ever been. Our cooperation is developing at all levels, in all sectors. It is at the best level it has ever been and this is to the benefit of both the US and Greece.

The USA rediscovered Greece. Apart from a dynamic market and the renaissance of the real estate market, let’s be honest, nobody would want to go anywhere else but stay in this country.”

He observed that American companies discovered Greece not only for the great food and climate, but because Greece is what every company is looking for and has an exceptional level of brilliant people and workforce.

The US ambassador emphasized that the economic achievement in Greece did not happen by chance, he attributed it to the hard work of the government and the people and congratulated those who contributed to it.

“Greece came out of the worst economic crisis it could ever experience and managed to come out. It moved very quickly and is currently recording 2.7% primary surplus.

My own country is also experiencing record levels in the stock market and employment, but we do not have the 2.7% primary surplus of Greece. No other country in Europe has it. It is incredible that Greece is recording growth three and four times above the Eurozone average, the largest reduction in the debt-to-GDP ratio in the entire world. I’m talking about an economic miracle.” It is the hard work of the government and the people that counts. It’s a major achievement and I don’t think these things happen by accident. I want to congratulate everyone involved for this achievement.”

Referring to Greece’s position, he pointed out that it is surrounded by pillars of instability. He spoke about newborn democracies in the north facing difficulties and challenges, he said that “there are countries in Europe that feel they can invade their neighbor and change the boundaries of sovereignty by force, undermine democracies exploiting energy, extortion, and we see the crisis which is currently raging in the Middle East”.

“In a region that is desperately seeking stability, Greece is the important partner because it does not operate by surprise, but on the basis of principles and values ​​and this is something that is appreciated by everyone,” said Mr. Tsounis and added: “I am 26 months in the position of ambassador and I understand that Greece is a serious, reliable partner. That’s why he has the respect of Washington.”

He advocated the integration of immigrants into the societies of Europe and the US and against the voices of division and hatred he sent a message of hope, opportunity, integration and acceptance.

“We have voices of division and hatred all over the world and I want to send a message of hope. Let us put aside division and division. Let’s see a world of hope and opportunity and possibility and kindness and inclusion. We need more love, understanding and acceptance in our society. We need to work together. We are all brothers to each other, we are all God’s children” emphasized Mr. Tsounis.