H.R. 4343: United States-Greece Security Cooperation Reporting Act

This bill, titled the United States-Greece Security Cooperation Reporting Act, aims to enhance the understanding and evaluation of the security relationship between the United States and Greece. The primary action it mandates is for the Secretary of Defense to prepare and submit a report outlining various aspects of this partnership within 120 days of the bill's enactment.

Key Components of the Bill

Findings

The bill begins with several findings that highlight the importance of the U.S.-Greece security relationship, including:

• The longstanding partnership founded on shared democratic values and interests.
• The Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) between the United States and Greece, which was updated in 2021, further solidifying defense collaboration.
• Greece's strategic geographical position that supports regional security and energy diversification efforts.
• The role of key military locations in Greece (such as Alexandroupolis and Souda Bay) that enhance NATO operations and U.S. military capabilities.
• The vital logistical function of Alexandroupolis in enabling rapid deployment of U.S. forces in Europe.

Report Requirements

The legislation specifies that the report from the Secretary of Defense must address the following elements:

• A detailed description of the basing rights granted to the U.S. under the updated MDCA.
• A summary of U.S. military activities and investments at the bases mentioned in the MDCA since the agreement's update.
• A list of necessary projects associated with U.S. basing rights in Alexandroupolis.
• An analysis regarding the potential for establishing additional U.S. military bases or expanding the presence in various locations in Greece, especially on Greek islands.
• An assessment of ongoing security cooperation, as stipulated by prior defense legislation.

Report Submission

The bill designates that the report will be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees, specifically:

• The House Armed Services Committee.
• The Senate Armed Services Committee.

Objectives of the Bill

The overall objective of this bill is to ensure the U.S. Congress is informed about the state and details of U.S.-Greece defense cooperation, thereby facilitating informed decision-making regarding future military funding, partnerships, and strategy in the region.

Relevant Companies

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