Saudi Arabia and Greece have committed to deepening their collaboration in various sectors, notably energy, investment, and digital connectivity, as part of their centennial diplomatic relationship. In a recent meeting held in Riyadh, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis underscored the significance of safeguarding international shipping lanes and ensuring consistent energy supplies, given the potential global economic repercussions of infrastructure attacks.
The discussions highlighted the critical role of energy cooperation, with both nations agreeing to expedite an electricity interconnection project. This initiative aims to facilitate energy exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Europe via Greece. Additionally, they explored avenues for exporting Saudi clean hydrogen to Greece and other EU markets, alongside potential investments in renewable energy and petrochemicals.
Beyond energy, the two countries pledged to strengthen economic ties across sectors such as infrastructure, construction, logistics, and technology. With bilateral trade projected to reach approximately $1.7 billion by 2025, the discussions reflected a growing commercial partnership. Digital connectivity was also a priority, with progress on the EMC submarine cable project, which seeks to enhance communications infrastructure between the East and West.
Saudi Arabia invited Greek companies to invest in the Kingdom, encouraging participation in major initiatives like the Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Conversely, Greece welcomed Saudi investors to explore opportunities in its transport, energy, logistics, digital infrastructure, and advanced technology sectors.
The leaders further agreed to bolster their defense and security ties, focusing on counterterrorism, combating terrorist financing, cybersecurity, intelligence sharing, and professional training. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to international climate agreements and expressed interest in cooperating on carbon management, artificial intelligence, space technology, healthcare, education, tourism, and culture.
This meeting builds on the strategic partnership council established in 2022, underscoring the growing significance of Saudi-Greek relations in ensuring energy security, facilitating international trade, and enhancing regional connectivity.