Saudi Arabia and Greece have taken significant steps to bolster their partnership in energy, investment, digital connectivity, and security, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met in Riyadh. The meeting comes as the nations celebrate a century of diplomatic relations, highlighting their shared commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation.
A joint statement underscored the importance of protecting international shipping routes and ensuring the steady flow of energy supplies, amidst concerns over potential attacks on energy infrastructure that could disrupt global markets. Greece lauded Saudi Arabia’s role in stabilizing oil markets and exploring alternative export routes, such as the East-West Pipeline.
Energy cooperation was a focal point, with both countries agreeing to expedite the development of an electricity interconnection project. This initiative aims to facilitate energy exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Europe via Greece. Additionally, discussions included exporting clean hydrogen from Saudi Arabia to Greece and other EU markets, along with mutual investments in renewable and conventional energy sectors.
The two nations also highlighted the importance of expanding economic ties in areas such as infrastructure, logistics, and technology, noting that bilateral trade had reached approximately $1.7 billion by 2025. Progress was also acknowledged in the EMC submarine cable project, which seeks to enhance communications infrastructure between East and West.
Encouraging investment was a mutual priority; Saudi Arabia invited Greek companies to participate in significant development projects like Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, while Greece encouraged Saudi investors to explore opportunities in transport, energy, and digital infrastructure.
In terms of security, the leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and cybersecurity. Both countries reiterated their commitment to international climate agreements and expressed mutual interest in collaborating on carbon management, artificial intelligence, and space technology.
This meeting builds on the strategic partnership council established in 2022, underlining the increasing significance of Saudi-Greek relations in energy security and regional connectivity.