Travel to Greece, Italy, the Holy See, and Croatia, September 27 – October 2, 2020

Summary

• Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo travels to Greece, Italy, the Holy See, and Croatia September 27 to October 2.

• In Greece, Secretary Pompeo met with Prime Minister Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister Dendias to renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace, and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest U.S.-Greek relationship in decades. In Thessaloniki, the Secretary signed a bilateral science and technology agreement, and hosted energy sector business leaders for a discussion to highlight energy diversification and infrastructure projects in Greece. In Crete, the Secretary visited Naval Support Activity Souda Bay to underscore the strong U.S. security partnership with NATO Ally Greece.

• In Rome, the Secretary met with Prime Minister Conte and Foreign Minister Di Maio to discuss the U.S.-Italy bilateral relationship, COVID-19 responses, and our efforts to confront shared security threats and promote regional stability.  The Secretary delivered remarks at the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See Symposium on Advancing and Defending Religious Freedom through Diplomacy on September 30.  In Vatican City, Secretary Pompeo met with Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin and Secretary for Relations with States Archbishop Gallagher.

• On October 2, Secretary Pompeo traveled to Croatia to meet with Prime Minister Plenković, Foreign Minister Grlić Radman, and Defense Minister Banožić.  The leaders discussed opportunities for closer cooperation between the United States and Croatia in key areas of mutual concern, including defense cooperation, the growing U.S.-Croatia investment relationship, and Croatia’s strong efforts to advance Western Balkan integration.