The American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce stands at a decisive crossroads—one shaped not by circumstance, but by vision. As global challenges grow more complex and transatlantic ties more essential, AmCham Greece is entering a new era of strategic engagement, one defined by presence, purpose, and proximity to power.
In May 2025, following meticulous planning and preparations, the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce formally opened its first branch in the United States. The inauguration of this new office in Washington DC is more than a ceremonial expansion. It is a bold statement of intent, a practical and symbolic milestone that signals the Chamber’s evolving role as a conduit of influence between Greece and the United States. From the heart of the American capital, we are strengthening our capacity to engage meaningfully with US policymakers, business leaders, opinion shapers, and diaspora communities.
This move is not simply geographic; it is strategic. By embedding the Chamber within one of the world’s most consequential political and economic ecosystems, we are opening new channels for dialogue, investment, and cooperation. It is a natural evolution of our mission to serve as a trusted bridge between nations, institutions, and ideas and a critical step toward shaping a more impactful future.
AmCham Greece in Washington: A Strategic Move
The decision to establish a permanent presence in Washington DC was not taken lightly. It reflects a growing recognition that Greece’s voice must be heard—and felt—at the core of transatlantic decisionmaking. The new AmCham Greece office will serve as a dynamic platform for engagement, advocacy, and partnership, reinforcing our commitment to a future grounded in substance and sustained by relationships.
Washington is where global priorities are shaped. It is where policy intersects with business, where diplomacy meets innovation, and where alliances are built through constant, credible presence. For the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, this new foothold offers unparalleled access to critical US institutions: Congress, the administration, think tanks, and leading industry associations.
“The Washington office marks a new era for AmCham Greece: an era of direct engagement, deeper partnerships, and daily influence.”
— John D. Saracakis, Vice President of AmCham Greece; Washington DC, May 22
More importantly, it offers a daily seat at the table, something that cannot be achieved from afar. Whether advancing investment opportunities, promoting bilateral cooperation, or helping shape the transatlantic agenda on energy, technology, defense, or trade, the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce is now positioned not just to respond, but to lead.
Our strategic expansion into Washington marks the beginning of a more agile, engaged, and internationally focused Chamber, one poised to forge impactful partnerships and act as a trusted interlocutor between Greece and the United States in real time.
Political Influence and Public Policy Alignment
AmCham Greece’s ability to shape conversations at the highest levels of policymaking is no longer aspirational—it is real, respected, and growing. Through regular engagement with US and Greek political leaders, including members of the US State Department and Congress, we are increasingly seen as a constructive and credible interlocutor in transatlantic relations. Leaders such as members of Congress Rep. Gus Bilirakis (Florida) and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (New York), as well as Rep. Chris Pappas (New Hampshire), Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, have played pivotal roles in ensuring that Greek-American perspectives remain visible and impactful in Washington. Their commitment to US-Greece relations is not only consistent but deeply rooted in shared democratic values and cultural heritage.
“Exchanging views with John on how principled leadership can deepen U.S.–Greece ties, gives purpose. His presence reflects a commitment to the shared democratic values that define our bilateral relationship.”
— Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL); Washington DC, May 15
“Engaging with John on how to keep U.S.–Greece relations strong, forward-looking, and bipartisan, was very insightful. The Chamber’s leadership clearly understands the importance of this responsibility..”
— Representative Nicole Malliotakis (NY); New York, May 21
Former US Ambassador to Greece Charles Ries, a longtime friend of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, offers a powerful example of how diplomacy and trade intertwine to shape stable, opportunity-rich bilateral relations. As we move forward, AmCham Greece must sustain and expand these institutional bridges, maintaining not only access but influence. Our contribution to bilateral conversations must be deliberate, firm, and with an eye to the future, grounded in both business acumen and geopolitical awareness.
“John represents AmCham Greece with clarity and purpose. The Chamber’s growing presence in the U.S. shows it’s ready to contribute meaningfully to transatlantic dialogue.”
— Representative Chris Pappas (NH); New York, May 21
“AmCham Greece’s presence in Washington represents a strategic maturity in US–Greece relations. It’s a necessary step for serious policy influence.”
— Charles Ries, former US Ambassador to Greece; during a meeting to discuss geopolitical strategy in US-Greece relations, Washington DC, May 15
Business and Industry Leadership
The American-Hellenic Chamber has long served as a trusted convener of business leaders and a dynamic engine of trade. In recent years, that role has evolved to include deeper engagement with innovation ecosystems, clean energy, and digital transformation.
From US CEOs to Greek-born startuppers and from legacy industries to emerging tech sectors, our network is more diverse and dynamic than ever. Peter Tichansky, President and CEO of the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU), is a prime example of the kind of outward-facing leadership and strategic alignment the Chamber seeks. His work in promoting international business diplomacy resonates deeply with our own mission to foster cross-border collaboration.
“John understands that diplomacy and business are two sides of the same coin—especially when building trust across borders. His approach reflects the values we need in today’s global business environment.”
— Peter Tichansky, President and CEO of BCIU; during a meeting on international business diplomacy, New York, May 19
To succeed in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, AmCham Greece must continue to attract leadership fluent in both the operational rigor of traditional industry and the agility of tech-driven innovation. The future lies in cross-sector fluency—and our role is to enable, connect, and lead.
The Greek-American Diaspora: A Strategic Ally
No conversation about strengthening transatlantic ties is complete without recognizing the Greek-American diaspora—a formidable force in business, politics, culture, and philanthropy.
Individuals such as John Catsimatidis, Chairman and CEO of Red Apple Group and a major voice in New York’s civic and philanthropic life, and George Stamas, founding board member of The Hellenic Initiative (THI) and a senior partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, exemplify the diaspora’s unmatched capacity to amplify Greece’s relevance on the global stage.
“Discussing John’s vision on what Greece truly needs to attract long-term investment, was energizing. It’s not about appearances—it’s about stepping up to lead with purpose and push for real progress.”
— John Catsimatidis, CEO of Red Apple Group; New York, May 20
Whether investing in startups, supporting youth and education in Greece, or opening doors in Washington, the diaspora community is deeply committed—but still underleveraged. Alexandra Spyrou Mitsakis, Executive Director of the Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce in New York (HACC), also represents the next generation of diaspora leadership, strengthening institutional links and promoting business-to-business partnerships.
The American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce must work deliberately to tap into this reservoir of strategic capital. Doing so is not a matter of outreach alone—it requires trust, cultural fluency, and the ability to align longterm interests. Here, too, lies vast untapped potential.
Interfaith and Cultural Diplomacy
AmCham Greece’s impact extends beyond boardrooms and ministries. In an era of polarization and global uncertainty, soft power matters more than ever, and the moral voice of cultural diplomacy carries weight.
Meetings with high-ranking members of the Orthodox Church, including Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, affirm the Chamber’s commitment to values-based diplomacy. The Archbishop’s influence as both a spiritual leader and a respected voice in political and civic dialogue enhances the Chamber’s ability to navigate spheres of moral authority with credibility.
“Connecting with John and exchanging views around the idea that business leadership, when rooted in ethics and service, becomes a force for unity, was very meaningful. That ethos is clearly shaping AmCham Greece’s evolving mission.”
— Archbishop Elpidophoros; during a meeting on the role of interfaith diplomacy in strengthening transatlantic bonds, Boston, May 16
“It was encouraging to see John embrace the idea that the future of the Greek Diaspora lies with those who build bridges—between generations and across borders. Continuity, identity, and connection matter more than ever.”
— Father Alex Karloutsos; during a meeting on diaspora cohesion, New York, May 19
Father Alexander Karloutsos, known for his decades of service as an advisor to the Ecumenical Patriarch and for his unique presence across religious and diplomatic circles, embodies the kind of leadership that transcends boundaries. His work with the Order of Saint Andrew and his role in interfaith dialogue have contributed to shaping Greece’s global cultural footprint.
Interfaith engagement is not symbolic; it is strategic. It affirms our commitment to inclusive values, shared history, and bridge-building. As we look to the future, AmCham Greece must retain the gravitas to operate in these spaces—with humility, clarity, and purpose.
Vision in Action: Stronger Together
Across all fronts of the Chamber’s expanding transatlantic presence—political, business, cultural, and civic—a consistent force is driving momentum: a new kind of leadership rooted in connection, conviction, and continuity.
The individuals behind AmCham Greece’s recent advances are not simply reacting to opportunity; they are cultivating it. Through deliberate relationship-building, purposeful engagement, and a deep understanding of both the Greek and US business and policy landscapes, they are shaping a more assertive, visible, and confident Chamber.
This is the Chamber’s most globally engaged and influential era to date, built on decades of credibility and energized by a renewed sense of purpose
Recent months have seen a coordinated effort to forge new alliances and elevate the Chamber’s role in strategic dialogue. Meetings with US policymakers are no longer occasional—they are ongoing. Discussions with thought leaders, diaspora influencers, and industry innovators are not just symbolic—they are actionable. These developments stem from a leadership philosophy that values presence over proclamations and results over rhetoric.
The result is a sense of alignment and forward movement—within AmCham Greece, across the transatlantic community, and among stakeholders who see this new chapter not as a shift but as a natural evolution. Stronger together, and stronger by design.
A New Day, A Trusted Direction
The American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce is not merely adapting to change; it is helping define it. With its presence now firmly anchored both across Greece and in the United States, the Chamber stands ready to operate at a new level of international relevance. This is the Chamber’s most globally engaged and influential era to date, built on decades of credibility and energized by a renewed sense of purpose.
The opening of the Washington office is not the culmination of a journey, but the beginning of a more ambitious one. One that demands steady vision, deep-rooted relationships, and the ability to inspire confidence on both sides of the Atlantic.
The Chamber’s upcoming elections mark a pivotal moment. At stake is not just continuity, but momentum. Not just structure, but spirit. The next chapter of AmCham Greece’s story will require leadership that is forward-looking yet grounded, dynamic yet respected, and capable of stewarding this new direction with clarity and commitment.
The course has been set. The foundation is strong. The future is within reach—and in trusted hands.
In the runup to the Chamber’s general assembly and election in June 2025, presidential candidate John D. Saracakis embarked on a week-long strategic engagement trip to the United States. His meetings spanned congressional offices, religious and diaspora leadership, international think tanks, and business diplomacy institutions, culminating in the inauguration of AmCham Greece’s Washington DC office on May 22. The individuals referenced and perspectives shared in this article reflect the insights and relationships cultivated by John D. Saracakis during his personal meetings and engagements over the course of this trip.
Driven by Saracakis Group of Companies