AHI Virtual Forum Highlights Initiatives to Strengthen U.S.–Greece Business Ties

Nick Larigakis, president and CEO of AHI, moderated the discussion with John D. Saracakis, president of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, and Katerina Sokou, executive director of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce USA

No. 17

WASHINGTON, D.C. — New initiatives to increase U.S. investment in Greece and expand bilateral economic cooperation were highlighted during a virtual forum on “The Role of Economic & Business Ties in the U.S.–Greece Strategic Partnership,” hosted by the American Hellenic Institute (AHI).

Nick Larigakis, president and CEO of AHI, moderated the discussion with John D. Saracakis, president of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, and Katerina Sokou, executive director of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce USA in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, March 10.

Speakers discussed expanding U.S.–Greece economic opportunities and addressing Greece’s long-standing “brain drain” by encouraging skilled professionals to return.

“The brain drain is already reversed—there is more people returning than there are people leaving from Greece,” Saracakis said. “However, there is still way too many brains that are still outside of Greece.” He added that a new project will soon be announced that could attract young people to the Greek market.

Echoing the importance of such initiatives, Larigakis emphasized AHI’s commitment to efforts that expand business and investment ties between the two countries.

“We at the American Hellenic Institute are ready to help in any way we can in advancing the work of AmCham, because it serves our purpose of promoting the U.S.–Greece relationship, which is at the core of our mission,” Larigakis said.

The Chamber’s Washington office helps connect American and Greek businesses, Sokou noted.

“It's a rewarding job in that regard to see and to be able to contribute to specific connections and contacts that drive investment.” 

Responding to audience questions, participants highlighted growing opportunities in sectors such as energy, digital infrastructure, innovation, tourism, and technology, as well as Greece’s strategic location linking Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

The discussion underscored that Greece’s investment climate has improved since the financial crisis, as economic reforms, fiscal stabilization, and judicial modernization have helped rebuild some investor confidence.

To watch the full discussion, click below 👇