Greece and Saudi Arabia have called for the protection of international shipping routes and uninterrupted energy supplies, warning that attacks on critical infrastructure threaten global markets and supply stability.
The warning came as Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Sunday, with the two countries also pledging to accelerate energy projects, expand investment and strengthen defence cooperation as they mark 100 years of diplomatic relations.
During the visit, the two countries issued a joint statement stressing the importance of protecting international shipping routes and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies.
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Both sides expressed concern over attacks on energy infrastructure and the potential consequences for global supplies and market stability.
Greece also praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts to stabilise international oil markets and maintain energy exports through alternative routes, including the Kingdom’s East-West Pipeline.
The discussions come as maritime security and reliable energy supplies remain critical issues for international trade and the wider economy.
Greece and Saudi Arabia Advance Electricity Link
Energy cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with both governments committing to accelerate work on the proposed Saudi-Greek electricity interconnection.
The project aims to facilitate electricity exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Greece, improve power grid reliability and strengthen connections between the Middle East and European energy markets.
The two countries also agreed to explore opportunities for exporting clean hydrogen from Saudi Arabia to Greece and other European Union markets.
Further cooperation is planned across conventional and renewable energy, petrochemicals and related infrastructure, creating opportunities for investment and closer integration between the two economies.
For Greece, the proposed electricity link could strengthen its role as a connection point between European energy markets and the wider Middle East.
For Saudi Arabia, expanded energy partnerships offer additional routes into European markets as the Kingdom pursues broader economic diversification.
Trade and Investment Ties Expand
The two governments also highlighted growing commercial relations, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $1.7 billion in 2025.
Both sides called for stronger investment cooperation in infrastructure, construction, energy, logistics and technology.
Saudi Arabia encouraged Greek companies to establish regional headquarters in the Kingdom and pursue opportunities associated with major developments, including Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Greece invited Saudi investors to explore opportunities in transport, energy, logistics, digital infrastructure and advanced technologies, highlighting the country’s position as a gateway to European markets.
The discussions build on the strategic partnership council established following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Greece in July 2022. The council held its first meeting during Mitsotakis’ visit to Saudi Arabia in January 2025.
Submarine Cable Project Strengthens Digital Connectivity
Digital infrastructure was another priority, with both countries welcoming progress on the EMC submarine cable project.
The project is designed to strengthen digital connectivity between East and West, supporting international data transmission and communications infrastructure.
The two governments pledged to coordinate efforts to complete the project according to the agreed timetable.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen economic links through technology, communications and infrastructure investment.
Both sides also identified artificial intelligence and space technology as areas for future cooperation.
Defence and Security Cooperation
Greece and Saudi Arabia agreed to strengthen cooperation in defence and security, including efforts to combat crime, terrorism and terrorist financing.
The two sides also supported greater exchanges of expertise and training, alongside closer cooperation on cybersecurity and information sharing.
The commitments add a security dimension to a relationship increasingly focused on strategic infrastructure, energy and trade.
Both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, while supporting cooperation on the circular carbon economy.
Further areas identified for collaboration include healthcare, education, culture, tourism and sport.
A Century of Diplomatic Relations
Mitsotakis’ visit marks a significant milestone in relations between Greece and Saudi Arabia, which are celebrating a century of diplomatic ties.
The discussions in Riyadh reflect efforts by both governments to translate their longstanding relationship into deeper economic, energy and security cooperation.
With international shipping routes, energy infrastructure and digital connectivity high on the agenda, the partnership is expanding beyond traditional trade into areas with wider regional significance.
The next phase will depend on the implementation of the proposed electricity interconnection, progress on the submarine cable and new investment commitments between the two countries.
