Saudi Arabia and Greece have committed to enhancing their cooperation in energy and other strategic sectors, as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met in Riyadh. This meeting, marking a century of diplomatic relations between the two nations, focused on bolstering ties in energy, investment, digital connectivity, and security.
In a joint statement, the leaders highlighted the importance of safeguarding international shipping routes and ensuring continuous energy supplies. They expressed concerns about attacks on energy infrastructure and their potential repercussions on global energy markets and economic stability. Greece acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s efforts to stabilize the global oil markets and maintain reliable supplies, including through the East-West Pipeline.
Energy cooperation was a key topic, with both countries agreeing to expedite a planned electricity interconnection project that aims to facilitate power exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Europe via Greece. They also explored the potential for exporting clean hydrogen from Saudi Arabia to Greece and other European Union markets, alongside investments in renewable energy, conventional energy, and petrochemicals.
The discussions also covered expanding economic ties in sectors like infrastructure, construction, logistics, and technology. Bilateral trade between the countries has reached approximately $1.7 billion, indicating growing commercial engagement. Digital connectivity was underscored, with progress noted on the EMC submarine cable project, which seeks to enhance communication infrastructure between East and West.
Saudi Arabia encouraged Greek companies to invest in the Kingdom and participate in significant development projects, including Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, Greece invited Saudi investors to explore opportunities in transport, energy, logistics, digital infrastructure, and advanced technologies.
The two nations also agreed to intensify defense and security cooperation, focusing on counterterrorism, combating terrorist financing, cybersecurity, intelligence sharing, and professional training. They reaffirmed their commitment to international climate agreements and supported cooperation in areas like carbon management, artificial intelligence, space technology, healthcare, education, tourism, and culture.
The talks build on the strategic partnership council established in 2022, reflecting the growing importance of Saudi-Greek relations in energy security, international trade, and regional connectivity.