In this first editorial of the year, I would like to start by wishing all our readers and the members of AmCham Greece a joyful and prosperous New Year, filled with health, creativity, and progress.
Just recently, I was reading the findings of the latest Eurobarometer survey regarding the level of pessimism Europeans feel about the future, which is mainly driven by geopolitical developments and security-related concerns. Undeniably, these developments are not particularly encouraging. When also taking into account the economic situation—not least inflation, rising prices, and the high cost of living—the survey’s findings seem, at least in part, justified. Add to that the recent friction in transatlantic relations with the United States, and it is only natural that Europeans, who for many years benefited from US protection, feel concerned. Yet these relations, given the sheer scale and significance of transatlantic trade and economic ties, cannot be so easily broken. One way or another, transatlantic relations have been, are, and will remain a cornerstone of the free and democratic world, despite periodic turbulence and challenges.
As far as Greece is concerned, our bilateral relations with the United States are currently going through an excellent phase, marked by numerous contacts and promising prospects, but also by challenges that require prudence, foresight, and careful handling. Geographically, we are privileged to be located at a highly strategic crossroads between three continents, and we serve as a major gateway to a European market of 450 million people—something of great significance for global supply chains, whether in trade, energy, education, tourism, or culture.
Against this changing and challenging background, our Chamber remains committed to its mission, working to offer our members a safe and reliable platform that provides continuous updates on developments and policies affecting their activities and creating networking opportunities not only at the domestic level but also internationally—in the United States, with the support of our Washington office, as well as in other countries, through the global network of American Chambers of Commerce. Furthermore, we promote the adoption of best practices and emerging technologies that enhance efficiency and competitiveness, and we also develop and engage in targeted advocacy to improve the business and investment environment.
I will conclude by saying that even in challenging and uncertain times, opportunities and possibilities always exist, and it is up to us to identify them and leverage them to the fullest extent. This is exactly what we will continue to do as a Chamber—always looking ahead with optimism and determination to keep advancing our mission and supporting our members.
