Launch of the new Caucus “Congressional Hellenic-Israeli Alliance" (2/13/2013)

On Wednesday, February 13, 2013 the US Capitol hosted a special and very successful event for the creation of the first Hellenic-Israeli Caucus.

Under the name "Congressional Hellenic-Israeli Alliance" - "CHIA" and under the chairmanship of Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-Republican Party) and Rep. Ted Deutch (FL-Democratic), the Caucus includes a vast number of powerful members from the two U.S. parties.

In addition to the Representatives participating in the Caucus, the Ambassadors of Greece and Israel and the Charge D’ Affaires of Cyprus to Washington, DC, and leaders of the Greek and Israeli Diaspora also attended the event and delivered speeches, addressing the launch and the potential of this initiative.

The Ambassador of Greece, Christos Panagopoulos, stressed that the creation of “CHIA” reflects the cooperation that is flourishing among the three countries- Greece, Israel and Cyprus. Given the historical upheavals in the region, this cooperation aims to establish stability and growth and to facilitate the consolidation of peace and security, while widely promoting the spirit of good neighborly relations. Furthermore, the Ambassador of Greece pointed out the opportunities that appear particularly in the sectors/areas of energy and tourism.

Referring to the ever-expanding cooperation between the two communities, Ambassador Panagopoulos also stressed that this joint initiative between the members of the Congress, not only indicates the excellent and concrete relations between the Greek and Israeli Diaspora, but also sets the foundations for more opportunities of partnership and cooperation.