Saudi-Greek cooperation took centre stage in Riyadh as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Their discussions covered safer international shipping routes, stronger energy security and closer economic ties. The meeting also marked 100 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The two leaders met at Al-Yamamah Palace on Sunday. An official reception ceremony preceded their discussions. Afterwards, they issued a joint statement outlining priorities for energy, investment, technology and regional security.
Both countries stressed the need to protect international shipping routes. They also called for uninterrupted energy supplies. Furthermore, they expressed concern about attacks on energy infrastructure. Such incidents, they warned, can disrupt supplies and undermine market stability.
Greece praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts to support global oil market stability. It also welcomed measures to maintain reliable energy exports. In particular, Athens highlighted alternative export routes, including the East-West Pipeline. This route helps Saudi Arabia transport oil towards the Red Sea.
Beyond energy security, the leaders discussed expanding trade and investment. Bilateral trade reached approximately $1.7 billion in 2025. This represented growth compared with 2021. Consequently, both sides called for stronger partnerships in infrastructure, construction, logistics, technology and energy.
The meeting builds on an existing strategic partnership council. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the council during his visit to Greece in July 2022. It held its first meeting during Mitsotakis’ Saudi visit in January 2025. The framework supports continued cooperation across several sectors.
Energy connectivity featured prominently in the discussions. Both governments pledged to accelerate plans for a Saudi-Greek electricity interconnection. The project aims to enable electricity exchanges between the two countries. Moreover, it could improve grid reliability and strengthen connections between Saudi Arabia and European markets through Greece.
The leaders also agreed to explore clean hydrogen exports. Saudi Arabia could supply hydrogen to Greece and other European Union markets. At the same time, both countries expressed interest in conventional energy, renewable power and petrochemical investments.
Digital infrastructure offered another area for closer cooperation. Both sides welcomed progress on the EMC submarine cable project. The cable aims to strengthen digital connections between eastern and western markets. They also pledged to coordinate work and meet the agreed completion timetable.
Saudi Arabia encouraged Greek companies to establish regional headquarters in the Kingdom. It also invited them to explore opportunities linked to major development projects. These include Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Such projects could create opportunities in construction, services, technology and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Greece invited Saudi investors to consider projects across several industries. These include transport, logistics, energy, digital infrastructure and advanced technologies. Athens also highlighted its potential role as a gateway to European markets.
The discussions also covered defense and security cooperation. Both governments pledged closer efforts to combat crime, terrorism and terrorist financing. Additionally, they supported professional training and exchanges of expertise. Cybersecurity cooperation and information sharing also featured among their priorities.
Climate policy formed another part of the joint statement. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. They also reiterated support for the Paris Agreement. Furthermore, they backed cooperation on the circular carbon economy to manage emissions.
The leaders identified additional opportunities in artificial intelligence and space technology. Healthcare, education, culture, tourism and sports also featured in their discussions. These priorities show how Saudi-Greek cooperation extends beyond traditional trade and energy.
Earlier on Sunday, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz received Mitsotakis. The deputy governor of the Riyadh region welcomed the Greek prime minister during his visit. The meeting reflected the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
As Saudi Arabia and Greece mark a century of diplomatic relations, both sides are seeking closer economic links. Their priorities include secure shipping, reliable energy supplies and stronger digital connectivity. These areas are expected to remain central to future bilateral cooperation.
