ISTANBUL

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate key meetings this week with Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, addressing a range of important global issues and reaffirming US alliances.

According to the US Department of State's official statement, during a meeting with Gerapetritis in Washington, DC on Friday, Rubio stressed the strategic importance of the US-Greece partnership.

The two leaders discussed various topics, including the challenge of illegal migration and Greece's commitment to defense spending.

Rubio, Lammy focus on Ukraine, defense, and security

On Thursday, Rubio met with Lammy to discuss shared concerns over the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, echoing the US administration's support for European defense efforts.

Both officials emphasized the importance of European burden-sharing in defense and security, with Rubio noting the significance of the UK’s decision to increase defense spending.

"We are united in our commitment to ending the war in Ukraine," Rubio stated, adding: "The recent decision by the UK government to boost defense spending is a critical step in strengthening our joint efforts."

The talks also touched on improving US-UK trade relations and securing peace in the Middle East and parts of Africa, with both sides sharing their commitment to continued collaboration on global security issues.