HIGHLIGHTS OF MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS AT THE EVENT

“At such a momentous and critical time in the world, it is an honor to speak with you to celebrate and salute Greek Independence Day. I want to thank the American Hellenic Institute for inviting me and for its enduring commitment to a healthy and strong relationship between the United States and Greece, and I want to acknowledge Nick Larigakis for putting on this event and for his leadership…The Hellenic Republic is not only a vital NATO ally and an important American partner, as the birthplace of democracy, Greece inspired America’s Founding Fathers in the creation of our own nation.”

– Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ)

“Thank you [AHI] for your leadership, which has been absolutely extraordinary, you really help to keep all of us on Capitol Hill far better informed than we would otherwise would be, and motivated….I am strong advocate for the need to preserve the rights of the [Ecumenical Patriarch], and to protest the incursion of the rights of the Patriarchate by President Erdogan and his government. I have called…for the reopening of the Halki Seminary, and to protest Turkey’s efforts to turn the churches of Saint Savior, and Hagia Sophia, into mosques. And I have also repeatedly condemned the looting and wholesale destruction of religious patrimony of occupied Cyprus by Turkish occupiers and have chaired Congressional hearings on that as well.”

– Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)

“The heart of every Greek, Cypriot, Greek-American, Cypriot-American, and Philhellene is warm when we think of the struggle for independence, and ultimately the success in achieving independence.”

– Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD)

“We look to Greece for so many things, [Greece] is an ally in a dangerous neighborhood, sets the tone for what is happening in the Balkans, and working with the [United States] on tourism, energy, and Israel.”

– Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV)

“To the sacred birthplace of democracy, I would like to congratulate Greece today, on marking 201 years of its independence. Our shared beliefs in democracy, freedom, and the rule of law are the foundation to our bilateral relationship.”

– Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD)

“The Greek people have demonstrated an incredible spirit and courage throughout their history, and they broke free from Ottoman rule 201 years ago.”

– Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH)

“Greece is a key partner and NATO ally, and the U.S.-Greece bilateral relationship is strong and deeply rooted in our shared commitment to democracy, rule of law, and regional security.”

– Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL)