WASHINGTON, DC – The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) submitted policy questions to members of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs in advance of a joint congressional hearing on “NATO 2030: A Celebration of Origins and an Eye Toward the Future.” The House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Energy, the Environment, and Cyber and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly held the hearing on June 24.

U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), a member of the subcommittee, questioned the hearing’s witnesses on policy concerns relating to Turkey’s behavior as a member of NATO. These concerns include Turkey’s support of Hamas and international terrorism, purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense system, and aggression toward Greece, in violation of United States and international laws.

Dr. Wes Mitchell, a former Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Afffairs, responded to Congresswoman Malliotakis’ line of questioning. He stated the United States should develop strong relations with U.S. ally, Greece, and strategic partner, Cyprus, as a counter to Turkey. In addition, former NATO Secretary General and former Prime Minister of Denmark Anders Fogh Rasmussen emphasized that strong U.S. engagement in the region is needed to prevent malign activity, including by Turkey.

“We commend Congresswoman Malliotakis for raising concerns about Turkey’s aggressive and provocative actions that undermine NATO and are not in the best interests of the United States,” AHI President Nick Larigakis said. “AHI appreciated working with her, and her staff, to address these concerns. We also applaud Dr. Mitchell and former NATO Secretary General Rasmussen on their responses the issue.”