ANNUAL REPORT 2020 American Hellenic Institute American Hellenic Institute Foundation AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Message from the President ...... 1 AHI/AHIF Board Member Biographies ...... 3 In Memoriam – Eugene T. Rossides ...... 13

Public Policy: An Overview...... 16 • U.S.-Greece Relations ...... 16 • The Cyprus Problem: U.S.-Cyprus Relations ...... 17 • The Ecumenical Patriarchate...... 18 • Keeping an Eye on Turkey ...... 19

Outreach...... 19 • Working with Congress ...... 20 • Working with the Executive Branch ...... 24 • Virtual Speakers Forum ...... 25

Impact...... 31 • Policy impact ...... 31 • Media impact ...... 33

General News ...... 35 Index ...... 41

AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE 1220 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036 www.ahiworld.org • 202-785-8430 • [email protected] 2020 ANNUAL REPORT Message from the President

Dear Member and Friends, anniversary of Cyprus independence our staff and board members appeared with an online celebration hosted in a significant number of media I write to you this year with mixed by PSEKA on September 30th. We interviews, which can be found in this emotions. As the American Hellenic also continued our close-working report. Furthermore, the AHI Foundation Institute marks its 46th year as the only collaboration with the American Jewish published the eleventh volume of its Greek American think-tank and public community in support of the burgeoning Online Policy Journal that provides policy center, I submit our 2020 Annual Greece-Cyprus-Israel partnership. Along expert policy analysis and commentary. Report with great pride. At the same with AHEPA, B’nai B’rith International, time, my heart is heavy with the loss Looking forward, I am excited to publish and the Conference of Presidents of of our dear founder, Eugene Rossides, The Future of Hellenism in America, Major American Jewish Organizations, who passed away in May. I am forever an extensive, 450-page volume that in January we completed our successful indebted and grateful for his leadership compiles the highlights from 18 Fourth Leadership Mission to Israel, and guidance over the decades. I am years of the popular AHI Foundation Cyprus and Greece. In an increasingly most appreciative of his entrusting me conferences that were held nationwide. dangerous and geopolitically significant to carry out the mission of AHI, which he AHI’s commitment to the perpetuation part of the world, it is important for us valued so deeply. I can never replace him, of Hellenism in America is steadfast. I to do our part to ensure the trilateral but I will always do my best to honor his also look forward to resuming our world- partnership continues to expand across name by continuing his work and legacy. class, uplifting programs such as our all sectors, lending stability to the region. I believe he would have been proud of Annual Hellenic Heritage Achievement our efforts during this past year. May his Undeterred by the challenges of and National Public Service Awards memory be eternal. lockdowns and social distancing, AHI Dinner and our study abroad program continued to work on our priorities to for college students as well as exploring During a year unlike any other in recent advance U.S. relations with Greece and additional ways to encourage growth memory, I am proud that AHI adapted Cyprus and to insist that Turkey be held in commerce, trade and investment and persevered. We held true to our accountable for its rapid escalation between the United States and Greece. mission thanks to the steadfast support of tensions through its belligerence of our Board of Directors, six of whom we Finally, AHI is excited about the prospects and illegal provocations in the Eastern welcomed last year, and to the dedicated of enhanced people-to-people ties Mediterranean, the Aegean Sea, and and diligent work of our staff during with celebrations to commemorate the the broader region. In our efforts to these unprecedented times. All of us bicentennial of Greece’s independence in accomplish these and all our initiatives working together along with you, our 2021. It is because of the long historical that advocate for the rule of law and treasured members, makes AHI continue U.S.-Greece friendship and these strong the best interests of the United States, to shine. people-to-people ties between the two we engaged with policy makers in the countries that AHI will encourage the We witnessed some important mile- Trump administration and maintained U.S. government to be engaged in the stones in 2020, not the least of which was a consistent presence on Capitol Hill bicentennial commemoration of Greece’s Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s historic where our policy positions are valued as independence. visit to Greece and Souda Bay, Crete in evidenced by the feedback we received, September. In his remarks, Pompeo said which is presented in this report. As I reflect on 2020, I am deeply grateful that Americans “look to Greece for a true and appreciative of the members, Now we must work to educate a new pillar of stability and prosperity in the board officers and staff for their Biden Administration and the 117th Eastern Mediterranean.” AHI has been dedication. Alongside our own activities Congress on our policy priorities, also emphasizing this truth to policymakers in Washington, and abroad, AHI’s presented in this report, and make sure for years, and it was gratifying to hear a strength relies on the many significant our concerns are at the forefront and that siting Secretary of State say it publicly. contributions and generous support U.S. relations with Greece and Cyprus of our members. We also look to you to AHI was pleased with the Trump Ad- remain on the ascent. communicate your suggestions, share ministration’s decision to slap Tur- Last year, to keep our audiences and your knowledge, and provide your key with sanctions for its acquisition stakeholders informed, we issued a insights so that we can continue to fulfill of the Russian-made S-400 missile record 161 press releases, statements, the needs of our most valuable asset— defense system, which is in violation of and announcements. We published white our members. the Countering America’s Adversaries papers, circulated our weekly e-news and Through Sanctions Act. AHI made the Thank you! hosted an inaugural “Virtual Speakers case to the Administration and to Con- Forum” series. AHI remains an important With warm regards and gratitude, gress to enact the policy and welcomed resource for media outlets seeking the the shift away from the previous failed Greek American perspective on U.S. policies of appeasement toward Turkey. policy in the Eastern Mediterranean. We In 2020, we joyfully marked the 60th placed several letters to the editor and Nick Larigakis, President

1 AMERICAN AMERICAN HELLENIC HELLENIC INSTITUTE INSTITUTE FOUNDATION

The American Hellenic Institute, Inc. (AHI) is a respected and independent non-profit, public policy and advocacy center that works to strengthen relations between the United States and Greece and Cyprus, and within the Greek American community. It was founded on August 1, 1974, following Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus with the illegal use of American- supplied arms in violation of U.S. laws and agreements. The AHI initiated the rule of law issue in the Congress in the interests of the U.S., thus changing the face of American politics. In the years since 1974, AHI has kept the spirit of the rule of law alive. TheAmerican Hellenic Institute Foundation, Inc. (AHIF), established in 1975, is a 501(c) (3) non-profit tax-exempt educational and research organization and is the first “think tank” devoted exclusively to the study of the issues confronting the Greek American community. AHI and AHIF have championed the rule of law and American values in foreign policy as in the best interests of the U.S. This is especially true in the Eastern Mediterranean, a region critically important to American national interests. Through our deep understanding and knowledge of issues affecting Greece, Cyprus, and U.S. interests in the region, we serve as the leading voice to American, Greek, and Cypriot policy makers and within the community. With our newsletters, conferences, seminars, publications and social media, we serve as a resource to our members and our network of supporters; providing them with the information necessary to be active at the grassroots level and to strengthen our voice in Washington.

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NICK LARIGAKIS President & Chief Executive Officer NICK LARIGAKIS has held different positions with the AHI since joining the organization in 1987. He received his B.A. in Political Science from the College of New Jersey, and did post graduate work in International Affairs at the American University in Washington, DC. For his work in support of Hellenism, Mr. Larigakis has been honored with the 1995 Hermes Expo International Award, the 2007 Hellenic News of America Award, the 2008 Society of the Argonauts Award, and by the Greek Independence Day Committee of Tarpon Springs, FL, where he served as Honorary Grand Marshall of the 2001 and 2009 parades. Other recognitions include an honorary award from the Hellenic National Defense General Staff. He is a member of AHEPA, and received the Inaugural AHEPA Outstanding Public Advocacy Award (April 2012). During the 2004 Olympic Games he served as a volunteer. In 2003, Mr. Larigakis was invested as an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. As of the fall of 2013, he was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the American Community Schools of Athens and serves on the Board of Trustees of the Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation USA. In 2015, he received the St. Katherine Community Service Award in Falls Church, Virginia.

“The American Hellenic Institute has been a steadfast support to our Greek-American community over the years, helping advance the relations between these blessed United States of America and our sacred homeland of Greece and Cyprus.” — His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, March 14, 2020

“AHI is one of the shining examples I often use of how Greece’s large American diaspora community can most constructively work with Greece and help us strengthen our bilateral relationship... the tremendous programs that Nick and the team put together... are examples of AHI’s truly unique role as a facilitator of the strategic relationship between the United States and Greece.” — U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Geoffrey Pyatt, Nov. 29, 2017

3 AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE BOARD OF DIRECTORS KOSTAS ALEXAKIS, ESQ. is a and until 2017, he was Area Manager for Greece, Turkey, Businessman, Engineer, Lawyer Cyprus & the Balkans, overseeing the Starwood affiliated and political activist. Mr. Alexakis hotels. In his current role, he oversees the Hotel Grande serves as Chairman and CEO of Bretagne & the King George, Luxury Collection properties, USL Financials, a software and Athens. Tim is Vice Chairman of The American Community systems implementation and School (ACS) of Athens, Vice President of the Athens Hotel consulting company that publishes Association, board member of the Greek Health Tourism and markets financial accounting Organization and Chairman of the Marriott Worldwide and procurement systems to governments, non-profit Business Council in Greece & Cyprus. organizations and universities. Public Sector’s clients are in 21 states in the U.S. and the company also supports clients LEON ANDRIS, a native Washingto- in Canada and the Caribbean. Mr. Alexakis started his nian, has been a member of AHI since career as an engineer with a degree in electrical engineering its inception and a Board member since and computer science from George Washington University 2014. A graduate electrical engineer, he in Washington, DC. He is licensed to practice law in all spent his career in real estate, specializ- state and federal court in Maryland and Virginia and ing in multi-family affordable hous- is admitted to the Bar of the US Supreme Court. Mr. ing. Andris is Vice-Chair of the New Alexakis also controls companies involved in real estate Jersey Metropolis Council and is the development, real estate management, and restaurants. In former Vice-Chair of the Technology Committee of the addition, he is actively involved in the Greek American Archdiocesan Council. He is an Archon and a five-time community and entered politics in 2004 when he was the past president of Saint George Greek Orthodox Church in Democratic Party’s nominee for Congress in Maryland’s 1st Bethesda. He and his wife, Robyn live in Georgetown, D.C. Congressional District. He continues to be active with the but spend time on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Delray Beach, Democratic Party nationally and in Maryland. Florida and his ancestral village of Tsintzina in the Parnon Mountains near Sparta. . TIMOTHY ANANIADIS was the Managing Director and General ELIZABETH Z. BARTZ is founder, Manager of the Hotel Grande Bretagne president, and CEO of State and Federal & King George from 2003 to 2020. Communications, Inc. with offices in He was born and raised in Greece Akron, Ohio and Washington, D.C. and studied Business Administration In Akron, she serves on the Executive at Ryerson University in Toronto, Committee for the Greater Akron subsequently moving to the USA Chamber of Commerce, Co-Chairing where he started his career in the hospitality industry. the Government Relations Committee, He has almost 40 years of international experience in the and on the United Way of Summit County, Chairing the hospitality industry. In 1988 he moved to Chicago as the Public Policy Committee. In DC, she is Vice President Corporate Director of Food and Beverage for Hyatt Hotels. of the National Institute of Lobbying and Ethics, serves As General Manager, he held positions in the USA at the on the Advisory Council for PLEN—Public Leadership Hyatt Regency in Pittsburgh, Coral Gables and Miami. In Education Network, and is on the Board of Directors for the Public Affairs Council. The many awards Bartz 1999 he joined Hyatt International as the General Manager received include Woman Philanthropist of the Year from of the Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki in Greece and the the Summit County United Way; Leadership Award from Grand Hyatt Mumbai. In 2003 he joined Starwood Hotels the Washington (DC) Area State Relations Group; and and Resorts returning to Greece as the General Manager/ the Top 100 Women-Owned Business Owners in Ohio Managing Director of the Hotel Grande Bretagne. In 2006 from Diversity Business since 2007. State and Federal 4 AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Communications received the Excellence in Business VAN COUFOUDAKIS, PH.D. is Award from the Greater Akron Chamber and has received Professor Emeritus of Political Science the Weatherhead 100 Northeast Ohio’s Fastest Growing and Dean Emeritus of the College of Companies. Elizabeth graduated from Kent State University Arts and Sciences, Indiana University- in Kent, Ohio with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism Purdue University. He is also Rector and a Master of Arts degree in Political Science. She served Emeritus of the University of Nicosia, on Kent State University’s National Alumni Association in Nicosia Cyprus. Between 2012-2014 Board as its Vice President; Community Advisory Council he served as President of the Hellenic for the University’s National Public Radio affiliate, WKSU; Quality Assurance and Accreditation Agency of the and serves on the Journalism Professional Advisory Government of Greece. He has authored and edited several Board. She has received The William D. Taylor Journalism books and over 100 articles published in academic journals Alumnus of the Year Award. She resides in Akron, Ohio and books in the US and Europe. He holds a Ph.D. from with her husband, John Chames. the University of Michigan and honorary doctorates from Indiana University and from the University of Nicosia. In PETER BOTA is co proprietor of the 1998, the President of Greece awarded him the decoration Metro 29 Diner Restaurant in Arlington, of the order of the Phoenix for his contributions to Hellenic Virginia. He is involved in the daily letters. operation of this very well known, high volume eating establishment. In addition DEMITRIOS HALAKOS has resided to being a successful entrepreneur, he in Delaware since emigrating to the also enjoys investing in real estate. Mr. United States from Greece in 1985, Bota received his under graduate degree from Hofstra after having received his undergraduate University in 1987. He believes in the importance of giving degree in Business Administration back to the community, supporting many charities, schools from T.E.I. in Patras. He is a founder and worthy causes. Mr. Bota resides in Arlington, VA with and principal of Halakos Management his wife Marta an entrepreneur and former Ms. Virginia and various subsidiaries consisting 2016. Together they have a grown son Christopher. of real estate holdings in several states and restaurant/ entertainment enterprises. Halakos is a former member NICHOLAS E. CHIMICLES, ESQ. of the Parish Council of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox is the founder and senior partner Church, Wilmington, Del., and he currently serves on its of Chimicles Schwartz Kriner & investment committee. Also, Halakos is a proud member Donaldson-Smith LLP (until recently and benefactor to AHEPA Chapter 95, Wilmington. Halakos and for the past 25 years known as is an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, a member Chimicles & Tikellis LLP), a 20-lawyer of Leadership 100, and the National Hellenic Society. In law firm with offices in Haverford PA addition, he currently serves on the Metropolitan Council and Wilmington DE that specializes of the Metropolis of New Jersey. Halakos, and his wife, in representing consumers and investors in class action Georgia, reside in Greenville, Del., with their two children, litigation. Mr. Chimicles is a graduate of the University Billy and Dia. of Pennsylvania and the University of Virginia School of Law, and has served as a member of the board of directors of numerous non-profit organizations that serve the underrepresented and underprivileged. Mr. Chimicles is a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, an Archon and member of Leadership 100. He and his wife Kathleen have five children and two grandchildren and live in Devon PA.

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ALEXANDROS (ALECO) HARA- JAMES L. MARKETOS, ESQ. is a LAMBIDES is a native of Miami, partner with the Washington, D.C., Florida who is a staunch believer in the law firm of Berliner, Corcoran & preservation and promotion of Hel- Rowe, LLP. A member of the New lenism. Aleco is one of the founding York and District of Columbia bars, members of the Archimedean Schools- he specializes in corporate litigation, -conservatories of mathematics and the representing private clients in state Greek language--where he continues to and federal courts throughout the serve on the board of directors. In 2004 he formed a com- United States. He received his Bachelor’s degree from pany called Aristo Mortgage Investments to invest in eq- Princeton University and his Juris Doctor degree from uity based mortgages and nonperforming mortgage loans. New York University where he was Co-Editor-in-Chief Aleco has also been an attorney for twenty years. He served of The Annual Survey of American Law and was awarded as President of the American Hellenic Institute from 2009 the law school’s Vanderbilt Medal. From 1997 to 2008, he to 2010. served as chairman of the American Hellenic Institute, Inc.

JAMES H. LAGOS, ESQ. is a JAMES PEDAS has a long history partner in the law firm of Lagos & in the entertainment industry. Lagos PLL in Springfield, Ohio. He While attending George Washington and his wife Nike are restoring the University Law School, he and his Bushnell Building in Downtown brother Ted established a recording Springfield. This is the oldest and company, Colt 45 Records, that largest building in America that is launched the musical career of both Platinum LEED Certified by Don Covay. Later they partnered to the US Green Building Council and acquire several drive-in movie theatres and with another on the National Historic Register. It is in a newly designated partner they bought a film distribution franchise. They Opportunity Zone. It is a smart office/retail building for have been involved in numerous film ventures over the lease or sale. They have extensively renovated 5 secure years including owning the Circuit/Showcase theatre industrial/warehouse buildings in South Carolina which circuit; owning a small part of Cinema 5 Ltd.; forming are available for lease or sale. Jim has held every office in his their own distribution company, Circle Releasing Corp., local Chamber of Commerce at least twice. He Chaired the and forming their own production company, Circle Films, Ohio Small Business Council and National Small Business which was one of the foremost backers of 1990s American Association. He has testified on small business issues in independent cinema. Among their most noted productions both Houses of Congress and General Assembly of Ohio. are the Coen brothers’ debut and sophomore films, “Blood He received the first ever national Small Business Advocate Simple” (1984) and “Raising Arizona” (1987). Jim earned a of the Year award by the US Small Business Administration. Bachelor of Science in economics from Thiel College and He has been on the Boards of AHI and AHIF since the early received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for Professional 1980s. He is a Chanter and Treasurer of the Assumption Accomplishment in 1980. He was awarded an honorary Church. He served 2 separate 6 year terms as President of doctorate from Thiel and was named trustee emeritus to the the Parish Council. He received the Saint Paul the Apostle Board of Trustees. He has been the recipient of numerous Medal from Archbishop Iakovos. He is a 49 year AHEPA awards for his work in promoting motion pictures as an art member and a member of the National Hellenic Society. form, including being named Washingtonian of the Year (1973) and receiving the American University’s Award for Contribution to Film Culture (1985). He is on the boards of Thiel College and The Washington Hospital Center. He

6 AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE BOARD OF DIRECTORS established the James Pedas Communications Chair at as developing strategies for new business development for Thiel in 1989 and the James Pedas Communication Center, Calamos Wealth Management and Calamos Investments a state-of-the-art technology, collaborative teaching and as a whole. He joined the firm in 2010 and has 12 years of learning space, which was dedicated at Thiel College in industry experience. Prior to joining the firm, Yanni was a 2014. He is a supporter of many philanthropic endeavors, senior derivatives broker and trader at LaSalle Global. He including establishing an Intellectual Property Chair at previously served as Vice President of Business Development George Washington Law School. He has served as a director and Director of the GCC (Cooperation Council for the of the National Capital Bank of Washington since 1973. Arab States of the Gulf) and the Middle East at America 2030 Equity, a private equity firm outside of Chicago. Yanni NICO BAMBERGER PRISKOS is earned a B.A. from Boston University, an M.A. in Industrial the Managing Partner for InterNet Psychology from National Louis University and is currently Properties; a boutique, locally and pursuing an AMP from the University of Chicago, Booth family owned full service commercial School of Business. He also holds a Series 65 license. Yanni real estate firm licensed in Utah and is active in the Greek American community and currently several surrounding States. In 2014, serves on the Metropolitan Council of the Greek Orthodox Nico obtained his real estate license Metropolis of Chicago, a Board Director of the American and began working as an agent in the Hellenic Institute, a Distinguished Advisor of the National office he was raised in. While working as an agent, Nico Hellenic Museum and a member of Leadership 100 and the attended the University of Utah, where he graduated in the National Hellenic Society. His first love was soccer, playing spring of 2017 with a double major in Entrepreneurship professionally in Greece and in the United States before his and Political Science along with a minor in International career was cut short due to injury. Yanni currently resides Studies. Following the passing of InterNet Properties’ in Chicago, Ill. founder and principal broker, Vasilios Priskos, in October 2017, Nico stepped in to take over day-to-day operations PAUL P. SOGOTIS is the President of InterNet Properties and manage the Priskos family’s real and CEO of Pacific Coast Maritime estate holdings. Nico is heavily involved in the Salt Lake Agencies, Inc, a high-quality marine City community, serving on the Utah State Fairpark Board agency company specializing in tanker of Directors, the Salt Lake City Police Foundation Board and dry bulk vessels with offices of Directors, the Downtown Alliance Board of Directors, in San Francisco, Los Angeles/Long and is a member of the Downtown Alliance Development Beach, California, Portland, Oregon & Committee. Driven by a profound love for Hellenism, Seattle, Washington. Paul is an Archon of the Ecumenical Orthodoxy, and history of the Greek American community, Patriarchate of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. Nico was elected to sit on the Parish Council for the Greek He is a member of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Orthodox Church of Greater Salt Lake and is the current America Archdiocesan Council and on the Metropolis of chair of the community’s real estate committee. San Francisco Council. He is a Board Member of the St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine located in historic YANNI SIANIS is the Chief of Staff St. Augustine, Florida and a Parish Council member of the of Calamos Investments. Prior to this Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, San Francisco. position, Yanni served as Vice President In addition, Paul is supporter of various Hellenic-American of Global Business Development and was organizations. He serves on the board of directors of the responsible for managing both domestic Elios Society & Charitable Foundation, an active member and international relationships for the of the National Hellenic Society and a longtime member private and institutional channels, as well of the American Hellenic Institute. Paul was born in San

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Francisco, California. He currently resides in Burlingame, He is an active member of AHEPA Chapter 515, former CA, a suburb of San Francisco, with his wife Evangelia, and President of The Hellenic Heritage Association of NYU, their two teenage sons Panayiotis and Yianni. Vice-President of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Chairman of the Upper Darby Greek Festival, GEORGE TSETSEKOS, PH.D. is Co-Founder of the Philadelphia Greek Basketball League the Francis professor of Finance and (PGBL), Co-Chairman of the National Hellenic Society’s Dean Emeritus at Drexel’s LeBow (NHS) Philadelphia chapter, Board Member of the Greek College of Business. He served as American Heritage Society of Philadelphia (GAHSP), active Dean of LeBow (2002-2012) and member of the Hellenic University Club of Philadelphia, under his transformative leadership and has served as Master of Ceremonies for several the college achieved national rankings Metropolis of New Jersey events such as the “Metropolitan and quality milestones in research and Evangelos Ambassador Awards” and the Metropolis Clergy teaching. Prior to his appointment as Dean, he served as Laity. John is married to Renee Koumatos Vasiliou, and VP of Academic Administration at Drexel University. Dr. the couple resides with their son Dimosthenes in Logan Tsetsekos’ extensive research covers the broad areas of Square, Philadelphia. corporate finance, investments and banking and teaches MBA finance courses. Dr. Tsetsekos has served on the advisory boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, the Penjerdel Council, the Pennsylvania Economy League, the World Trade, and other organizations and has chaired SAVE THE DATE the Board of the Global Interdependence Center (GIC). In addition, Dr. Tsetsekos has been engaged in consulting and advisory roles in public companies and organizations Hellenic Heritage including The World Bank, SEC, Bearn Stearns, and Achievement FannieMae. Dr. Tsetsekos has serves on the Board of AHI & National Public Service since 2009. ANNUAL

JOHN VASILIOU is a principal and Vice- President of Astra Foods, a Philadelphia- based protein manufacturing company. He is also a principal of Tasty Breads AMERICAN HELLENIC International, a Chicago-based frozen INSTITUTE dough manufacturing company. A graduate of New York University’s prestigious Stern School of Business, John worked during his college years in New York at the MARCH 19, 2022 International Securities Exchange (ISE), and spent time in Washington D.C., interning for then United States Senator Paul Sarbanes. In 2003, upon graduation, John went into the 48th Annual Hellenic Heritage Achievement family business to help grow Astra Foods into the nation’s & National Public Service Awards Dinner leading manufacturer of Philly-Style meat products. From a young age, John has always had a deep commitment to service to the Greek American community of Philadelphia. THE CAPITAL HILTON WASHINGTON, DC

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LEON ANDRIS President LEON ANDRIS, a native Washingtonian, has been a member of AHI since its inception and a Board member since 2014. A graduate electrical engineer, he spent his career in real estate, specializing in multi-family affordable housing. Andris is Vice- Chair of the New Jersey Metropolis Council and is the former Vice-Chair of the Technology Committee of the Archdiocesan Council. He is an Archon and a five-time past president of Saint George Greek Orthodox Church in Bethesda. He and his wife, Robyn live in Georgetown, D.C. but spend time on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Delray Beach, Florida and his ancestral village of Tsintzina in the Parnon Mountains near Sparta.

“Since its foundation in 1974, the American Hellenic Institute has proven to be a firm contributor to the advancement of the Greek-US relations. By organizing a large number of events and activities annually, AHI offers the opportunity to multiple American stakeholders for an in-depth understanding of issues related to Greece, Cyprus, Southeastern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean region in general. This effort effectively connects decision-makers in the United States with interlocutors in Greece and greatly supports the bilateral strategic partnership and broader regional cooperation. At the same time, initiatives focused on the young generation of Greek Americans prepare the next leaders who will guide Hellenism in America towards a more confident future. I would like to commend President Nick Larigakis and all the AHI members for their hard work and dedication.“ — Amb. Haris Lalacos, Former Ambassador of Greece to the U.S. (2017)

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JOHN ALAHOUZOS is a founding Hellenic Institute in Washington DC. He is a passionate partner of Market Development and vocal advocate for freeing Cyprus from Turkish Group, Inc. and the firm’s executive oppression and returning the Elgin marbles to Greece. vice president. An active philan- Mr. Andy is a strong believer in the rule of law in all the thropist, John lends his talents to a fundamental principles of the United States as applied variety of nonprofit organizations to our foreign affairs. He is an active member of both St. including the AHI Foundation. He Sophia Greek Orthodox Church in Miami, Florida and is chairman of the Board of Trustees St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Wildwood, of the Diabetes Research & Wellness NJ. He has a great love for his family and has engaged his Foundation USA and serves on the Board of Trustees of four children to cherish their Greek heritage and culture. DRWF’s sister organizations in the UK, France, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. John is also a member of the CONSTANTINE A. GALANIS University of Maryland College Park Foundation Board is the CEO of Apollo S.A., one of of Trustees and a member of the Board of Trustees of the largest chemical manufacturers Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of of Mexico. He began his career Theology. In 2009, John was honored with the title of as a consultant on international Archon Depoutatos of the Great Church of Christ by His environmental and energy issues to All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Apollo Chemical Corp., and later Phanar. became Commercial Director of Apollo Technologies International GUS ANDY is a city planner, a real Corp. He received both his Bachelor’s degree in estate developer, a businessman and Environmental Engineering and his Master’s in Business an entrepreneur with over 40 years Administration from Rutgers University. Mr. Galanis of experience. In 1969 Mr. Andy served as president of AHI Foundation (2016-2020) and purchased a small motel along the serves as honorary Counsel of the Republic of Cyprus in Atlantic Ocean and successfully built Mexico. In recognition of his outstanding service to the it into one of the most contemporary Orthodox Faith, he was conferred the title of Archon by 141 room hotel in Cape May, NJ. He Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. has also been successful in developing several other properties in Cape May and is currently JAMES H. LAGOS, ESQ. is a working on developing a large tract of real estate in partner in the law firm of Lagos & North Carolina. Mr. Andy is a strong zealot of education. Lagos PLL in Springfield, Ohio. He He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape and his wife Nike are restoring the Architecture and a Master’s Degree in City and Regional Bushnell Building in Downtown Planning from the University of Oklahoma. When a Springfield. This is the oldest and job landed him in Tallahassee, Florida he enrolled at largest building in America that the Florida State University where he took business is both Platinum LEED Certified courses while working full time. Mr. Andy is very active by the US Green Building Council in local civic politics, serving on several committees and on the National Historic Register. It is in a newly and boards, most recent, the Tourism Commission and designated Opportunity Zone. It is a smart office/ the City Planning Board. He is also very active in the retail building for lease or sale. They have extensively local Greek American Community and the American renovated 5 secure industrial/warehouse buildings in

10 AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

South Carolina which are available for lease or sale. Jim Wellness Foundation USA. In 2015, he received the St. has held every office in his local Chamber of Commerce Katherine Community Service Award in Falls Church, at least twice. He Chaired the Ohio Small Business Virginia. Council and National Small Business Association. He has testified on small business issues in both Houses of ELENI A. ROSSIDES is the Congress and General Assembly of Ohio. He received Customer Experience & Growth the first ever national Small Business Advocate of the Advisor for the Americas at Marriott Year award by the US Small Business Administration. He International. She supports the has been on the Boards of AHI and AHIF since the early development of consumer needs 1980s. He is a Chanter and Treasurer of the Assumption and synthesizing research insights, Church. He served 2 separate 6 year terms as President data and analytics into usable and of the Parish Council. He received the Saint Paul the actionable steps for the Americas, Apostle Medal from Archbishop Iakovos. He is a 49-year the largest Continent within AHEPA member and a member of the National Hellenic Marriott International’s portfolio of over 5,700 hotels Society. and 30 brands. Prior to Marriott International, Eleni worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company NICK LARIGAKIS has held focused in their marketing and branding practices and different positions with the AHI in marketing strategy and consumer insights at Black & since joining the organization Decker. Most recently she led the Washington Tennis & in 1987. He received his B.A. in Education Foundation (WTEF) with a 50-member board Political Science from the College and 70-member staff through a major organizational of New Jersey, and did post transformation and built a state-of-the-art tennis, graduate work in International academic and community center in a low-income Affairs at the American University neighborhood. Eleni is a former professional tennis in Washington, DC. For his work in player with a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University, support of Hellenism, Mr. Larigakis has been honored where she was selected All-American; captured the #1 with the 1995 Hermes Expo International Award, the women’s ranking in the country and was the first woman 2007 Hellenic News of America Award, the 2008 Society to be on four straight National Championship tennis of the Argonauts Award, and by the Greek Independence teams. She earned an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate Day Committee of Tarpon Springs, FL, where he served School of Management at Northwestern University. as Honorary Grand Marshall of the 2001 and 2009 She is a native Washingtonian who currently lives in parades. Other recognitions include an honorary award Maryland with her husband and three children. from the Hellenic National Defense General Staff. He is a member of AHEPA, and received the Inaugural AHEPA Outstanding Public Advocacy Award (April “I am a staunch believer in the work of the 2012). During the 2004 Olympic Games he served as American Hellenic Institute, and I have a volunteer. In 2003, Mr. Larigakis was invested as an always said that if it didn’t exist, we should Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. As of the fall have invented it.“ of 2013, he was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the American Community Schools of Athens and serves — Alexandros Mallias, Former Ambassador of Greece to the U.S. (March 15, 2007) on the Board of Trustees of the Diabetes Research &

11 AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DR. SPIRO SPIREAS is the Tsakopoulos reorganized all AKT holdings, projects owner, founder, chairman and chief and operations in Placer County, including the entitle- executive officer of Sigmapharm ment and donation of 1,100 acres to build a private Laboratories, an emerging four-year university. Tsakopoulos is active in regional, specialty pharmaceutical company national and international civic affairs and educational operating out of Bensalem, PA, policy. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of and engaging in the development, Columbia University and previously served on the manufacture and marketing of Columbia College Board of Visitors. He founded the unique generic and branded “Aristotle and the Moderns Chair” in Hellenic Studies pharmaceutical products. He is the inventor and author at Columbia. He is a trustee emeritus of the California of more than 130 international and domestic patents State University System and chairman emeritus of and patent applications, and more than 200 scientific the University of California, Davis M.I.N.D. Research papers, books, and other publications in the fields of Institute, among many other public service board and industrial pharmacy, pharmaceutical technology, commission appointments. In 2008, he was selected to biopharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics and analytical be a member of the Forum of Young Global Leaders chemistry. Dr. Spireas holds a Master’s degree and by the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. a Doctorate (Ph.D.) degree in Pharmaceutics and He received his bachelor of arts degree from Columbia Industrial Pharmacy from St. John’s University, Jamaica, University and a juris doctor from the McGeorge School NY, and a B.S. degree in Pharmacy from the Hellenic of Law. National University of Athens, Greece. Dr. Spireas is an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, a member of the Metropolitan Council of the Greek Orthodox “As co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus Metropolis of New Jersey, and a Parish Council member on Hellenic Issues, we rely on the American of the St. George Greek Orthodox Church at Trenton, Hellenic Institute's fervent advocacy of NJ, where he has also served for 4 years (2009-2012) the rule of law and focus on pressing as the President of its Parish Council. In addition, Dr. Spireas served as president of AHI Foundation (2011- issues in Greece and Cyprus that demand 2016) and is a member of AHEPA. He resides in New Congressional attention. From the hands of Hope, PA, with his wife Dr. Amalia Kassapidis-Spireas, legendary Gene Rossides to Nick Larigakis’ a pediatrician, and their two children. leadership today, AHI continues to set the standard of passionate, reasoned KYRIAKOS TSAKOPOULOS is education and advocacy. For the twenty- Co-chairman of AKT Develop- ment Corporation and AKT In- plus years of our Caucus’ existence, AHI vestments Inc., a diversified, family- has been a principal contributor and owned land company. The company advisor that has significantly helped shape operates real estate, farming, ranch- the Eastern Mediterranean geopolitical ing, water, minerals, building and landscape“ land development projects through- — Reps. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) & Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) out Northern and Central Califor- Co-Chairs, Congressional Hellenic Caucus. nia. Prior to becoming the company’s Co-chairman,

12 In Memoriam: AHI Founder Eugene T. Rossides

The American Hellenic Institute announced with profound sadness the passing of its founder, and former president, Eugene T. Rossides, in a statement issued May 18, 2020. Rossides passed away on May 16, 2020 at the age of 92. His passing prompted an outpouring of sympathy and messages of condolence from around the world. AHI is grateful and appreciative of all the sentiments, which can be found here. His memory was honored with an obituary in The New York Times and a special insert in The National Herald.

Eugene T. Rossides AHI’s statement is below: The American Hellenic Institute remains committed to the The global Hellenic community mourns a tremendous loss. ideals of Gene Rossides and pledges to continue promoting On behalf of AHI’s Board of Directors, President Nick Larigakis, his ideals and foreign policy values. staff, and members, we convey our deepest sympathies to For his extraordinary leadership of AHI and his contributions his wife, Aphrodite; his children, Michael, Gale, Eleni, and to the Hellenic diaspora, Gene Rossides received numerous Alexander; and the entire Rossides family. honors, awards, and accolades from governments, A proud American who never lost sight of his ancestry, Gene the Orthodox Church, Hellenic heritage and diaspora Rossides championed and inspired a generation and more organizations. During his lifetime, Gene also received to advocate for the rule of law, for Hellenism, and justice significant recognition as a distinguished athlete at Columbia for Cyprus. He provided a lifetime of service and dedication University, starring at quarterback during the university’s to America, Greece, Cyprus, and Hellenic ideals. The Greek “Golden Era” of football. Included among his many honors, American community and Hellenic diaspora are in a far awards, and achievements are: better place because of Gene Rossides. • Commander of the Order of the Phoenix by President Gene Rossides will be remembered for his many con- Konstantinos Stephanopoulos of the Hellenic Republic tributions to the law, legal scholarship, athletics and (2004) government service. He understood that United States • The Republic of Cyprus Presidential Exceptional Service foreign policy must be grounded on ethical principles and Medal – a rare honor requiring approval of Cyprus’s Council not only national power. He was the first Greek American of Ministers (2016) to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate to an Executive Branch • The House of Representatives of Cyprus Medal as a token office. He served as Assistant Secretary for the United States of gratitude for a lifetime of dedication to Cyprus and Treasury in the Nixon administration. its cause – the highest honor bestowed by the House of In the wake of the Turkish invasion of the Republic of Representatives upon an individual (2014) Cyprus in 1974, Gene Rossides founded AHI to advocate • Investiture in The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle – for US interests in U.S.-Greece-Cyprus relations. He was the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in America architect of the most substantial policy victory for the rule of • Induction into the Columbia Athletics Hall of Fame and law in Cyprus which was achieved with bipartisan support -- named to Columbia Football’s Team of the 20th Century the United States embargo on transfers of US arms to Turkey which took effect on February 5, 1975 and remained in effect • Honorary degree of Doctor of Laws of the Academy of until 1978. Athens (2005) • AHEPA-Archbishop Iakovos Humanitarian Award (2000) “Without that office and staff, we would not have succeeded in passing the historic rule of law arms embargo against • Induction into the AHEPA Hellenic Athletic Hall of Fame Turkey,” Rossides told The National Herald in a 2010 • AHEPA-Stamos Family Lifetime Achievement Award interview. (2014)• AHEPA-Archbishop Iakovos Humanitarian Award Gene Rossides also founded the American Hellenic Institute (2000) Foundation (AHIF) in 1975. It was the first “think tank” • Induction into the AHEPA Hellenic Athletic Hall of Fame devoted exclusively to the study of policy issues involving • AHEPA-Stamos Family Lifetime Achievement Award (2014) the Greek American community and contemporary Hellenism. He was serving as a director on the board of AHIF The New York Times obituary of Gene Rossides can be at the time of his passing. viewed here. ANNUAL REPORT 2020 13 On October 8, 2014, President of the Cypriot House of Representatives On November 10, 2016, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Yiannakis Omirou presents Gene Rossides with the highest award the United States Leonidas Pantelides presented the Republic of Cyprus House can bestow upon an individual as a token of our gratitude for a Presidential Exceptional Service Medal to Eugene T. Rossides “as a token of lifetime of dedication to Cyprus and its cause. our gratitude for a lifetime of dedication to Cyprus and its cause.”

In Remembrance: AHI President & CEO Nick Larigakis “It is with a heavy heart that I reflect upon Gene Rossides and what he meant to the community, AHI, and me, personally,” AHI President & CEO Nick Larigakis said. “I am forever indebted and grateful to Mr. Rossides for his leadership, guidance, and mentorship over the decades. I am most appreciative of his entrusting me with the opportunity to lead the AHI, of which its mission he valued so deeply. I have always tried to lead this organization in a way that always honors his name and the passion with which he championed the causes for which he cared deeply. In so doing, I am never under any illusion that I am replacing him because there is no replacing a legend; however, just to attempt to do the best I can to continue in his work and legacy. On a more personal level, I always considered Gene Rossides At the 40th Anniversary Hellenic Heritage Achievement and National like a second father because I was always able to share Public Service Awards Dinner on March 14, 2015 Gene Rossides received with him things that I was never able to share with my the AHI Hellenic Heritage Lifetime Achievement Award.” father. He will be remembered as a man of virtue and integrity, a genuine man. Gene Rossides did what he did out of true conviction and principle, and in so doing, he advocated and fought for the issues for all the right reasons! I will miss him dearly and can only make him the promise that I will continue to carry out his work to the best of my ability, moving forward. May His Memory Be Eternal.”

In Remembrance: AHI Foundation President Constantine A. Galanis “The American Hellenic Institute Foundation, its board members, supporters, and benefactors, profoundly lament the passing of its founder and mentor, Mr. Gene Rossides,” AHI Foundation President Constantine A. Galanis said. “He has been an inspiration to all of us in doing the right thing, a champion of the rule of law, On September 23, 2004, Gene Rossides received the Commander of the Order of the Phoenix from Greek President Konstantinos Stefanopoulos and respected broadly on both sides of the Atlantic for for his commitment to supporting Greek national issues, largely through his values and integrity. In honor of his memory, we will his work at AHI. continue to work for the causes he bestowed on us with even more fervor and inspiration. May His Memory Be Eternal.”

ANNUAL REPORT 14 2020 President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina In Remembrance: Sakellaropoulou wrote, “I express me deep sorrow for the loss of Eugene Rossides, pioneer in the defence of the rights of Hellenism in the US. Eugene Rossides, with his vision Worldwide Condolences from Prominent and tireless efforts, through the American Hellenic Institute Government and Religious Officials on which he established, contributed to the international awareness of our national issues and leaves a legacy of the Passing of Eugene Rossides great work, which is being continued by his successors. My warmest condolences to his family and the administration “The news of the loss of Eugene Rossides fills the Greeks of the American Hellenic Institute.” of the US with sadness, but also all of us who continue in the footsteps of the national effort that he made,” His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America wrote Prime Minister of Hellenic Republic Kyriakos wrote via Twitter, “I mourn the passing of Gene Rossides, Mitsotakis. “Eugene Rossides was the first Greek abroad one of the genuine lights of the Greek Diaspora and a true who, with the approval of the Senate, took position in the champion for Greece, Cyprus, justice, and the rule of law. His executive branch of the US. And one of the first realizing the memory will be full of “τὸν ἀγήρων ἔπαινον” that Pericles importance of the political organization of the Greeks of the lauded, a praise that will never grow old. Memory Eternal!” US by founding the American Hellenic Institute. A strong voice in favour of the Law and the interests of Hellenism. The former President of the Hellenic Republic, Mr. But also a timeless bridge of cooperation between his first Prokopios Pavlopoulos, contacted by telephone, the and the second homeland. President of the American Hellenic Institute, Mr. Nikolaos Larigakis, and expressed his sincere condolences for the His legacy remains a shining example for the next death of the prominent Greek-American Eugene Rossides. generations, since it is based on strong foundations and is The late Eugene Rossides established the Institute after inspired by universal principals. Patriotism, and respect for the [illegal] Turkish invasion [of] Cyprus and offered law and democracy. This is why his national footprint will invaluable services, through the homogeneity and not remain indelible in everyone’s memory. Warm condolences only to, the defense of the Republic of Cyprus and the full to his family.” implementation of the International Law for the just and sustainable solution of the Cyprus problem. President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades wrote, “It is with deep sorrow that I was informed of the During this communication with Mr. Larigakis, Mr. passing of Eugene Rossides, an iconic figure of the Hellenic Pavlopoulos warmly thanked him for the close and very diaspora in the United States of America, founder of the productive cooperation, throughout his service as a American Hellenic Institute and a strong fighter on behalf of President of the Hellenic Republic, with the aim to achieve the rights of Cyprus and of Hellenism. the general objectives of the American Hellenic Institute, which especially refer to the support on Cyprus and Greece Eugene Rossides was a true patriot whose special love in general, by the homogeneity. for Cyprus, Greece, and their just struggles led him to the founding of the American Hellenic Institute immediately The condolences messages can be viewed in full at following Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus in 1974 with the ahiworld.org. objective to support international legality. His dedication and combative spirit in support of the rights of the Republic of Cyprus and the Cypriot Hellenism are widely recognized both by Hellenism, more broadly, and also by the United States of America where he was engaged “The U.S. should follow the in his struggle for the freedom of Cyprus since 1954. Eisenhower Doctrine by applying In recognition of his great contribution to the Republic of the rule of law to Turkey. Cyprus, the state of Cyprus deservedly honored Eugene Rossides in 2016 with the Medal of Exceptional Service. To be credible the rule of law The fighting spirit of the noble Eugene Rossides with regard to the ideals of freedom and international legality is a guiding must be applied to our friends beacon for those who fight for freedom, democracy, and the and opponents alike.” rule of law. His shining example will continue to inspire the struggle of Cyprus until complete vindication is achieved. – Eugene T. Rossides On behalf of the Government and myself personally, I Founder, American Hellenic Institute express sincere condolences to his family, to the American Hellenic Institute, and to the Hellenism of the diaspora at large.”

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 15 PUBLIC POLICY: AN OVERVIEW

As you know, the Eastern Mediterranean is immensely require our collective attention and action. important to U.S. interests, and we must advance and promote policies that embrace the rule of law. Greece is Therefore, together, as advocates for the Rule of Law, a reliable, steady, and trusted NATO ally - a frontline state we must work to educate a new Biden Administration in the fight against terrorism. The Republic of Cyprus is a and Congress on our issues. The 117th Congress will be proven strategic partner of the U.S. Conversely, Turkey has controlled by Democrats and there will be 70 new members proven to be a failed NATO ally. The imposition of sanctions of Congress, some of whom will be serving on congressional on Turkey by the U.S. is evident. The instability for which committees of importance to our issues. In addition, we Turkey is responsible includes unprecedented, heightened must work with the Biden Administration, and the State aggression in the Aegean and in Cyprus’ exclusive economic Department under a new Secretary of State, to ensure the zone (EEZ), which unnecessarily places lives in harm’s way. high-level of engagement of the previous Administration Turkey’s provocations went to lengths almost unimaginable on Greece and Cyprus is sustained. U.S. relations with Greece in 2020. Turkey must continue to be held in check and and with Cyprus must remain on the ascent. Regardless of accountable for its actions. the demonstrated track record of President Biden and other officials in his Administration on matters pertaining to the Further, we must remember Turkey still maintains more Eastern Mediterranean, we must work to keep our policy than 40,000 illegal troops on the island of Cyprus and issues at the forefront of the Biden Administration’s foreign insists on keeping its guarantor status in a post-settlement policy agenda. And we must do the same in Congress, unified Cyprus, which is unacceptable. Religious freedom especially with the significant number of new members. We in Turkey remains under assault, including the plight of must not take anything for granted. the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the conversion of Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque, despite warnings We strongly urge our audience to utilize the policy and calls from entities such as the U.S. Commission statements to their full potential, educating policymakers on International Religious Freedom, the Congress, the and raising awareness of the issues to the community at- Administration, and UNESCO to address it. All these issues large.” U.S.-GREECE RELATIONS

AHI has championed vigorously Greece’s strategic importance to the United States. AHI advocates for a sustained strengthening of U.S.-Greece cooperation, especially in defense and security. Greece is also an important player in international commerce, shipping, and trade. Further, Greece possesses tremendous potential as an energy hub. AHI welcomes future U.S.-Greece economic relationships that pursue commercial partnerships and opportunities for more U.S. investment in Greece. AHI’s policy agenda will continue to press the United States to commit to ensuring Greece’s security and economic development is a priority and for continued bilateral cooperation that leads to strengthening across all sectors. Download and share the 2020 Policy Statement: U.S.-Greece Relations

ANNUAL REPORT 16 2020 U.S.-REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS RELATIONS

The strategic partnership between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus strengthened significantly in 2020 with a partial lifting of the arms prohibition on Cyprus and the first-time U.S. investment in an International Military and Education Training (IMET) program for the Republic of Cyprus. This is a good first step but addresses only non-lethal defense articles for commercial sales and is in place for one year.

If the United States-Cyprus relationship is to build successfully on the November 2018 Statement of Intent, then the United States must fully lift its arms prohibition on Cyprus and remove Cyprus altogether from the list of countries to which arms sales are prohibited under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

As such, AHI will continue to work with the State Department to reach an understanding that is in U.S. interests to remove Cyprus from the ITAR list, making it eligible to acquire U.S. defense articles and defense services without conditions. This is especially justified because the United States values Cyprus as a strategic partner.

The United States providing IMET program funding for the Republic of Cyprus for the first time is noteworthy. It is an important measure that signals the relationship between the U.S. and the Republic of Cyprus is deepening in security cooperation and that Cyprus is recognized as a strategic partner to counter malign influences in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Providing IMET program funding for Cyprus will be an effective and wise American investment because it contributes toward the strengthening of United States security interests in an increasingly important part of the world by helping to train and promote the professionalization of Cypriot military personnel.

The Cyprus Problem & U.S.-Cyprus Relations In 2020, the community observed the somber 46th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. In honor of this important day, we held a virtual briefing with 13 members of Congress and Ambassador of Cyprus to the U.S. Marios Lyssiotis and Ambassador of Greece to the U.S. Alexandra Papdopoulou, who provided remarks.

Turkey’s continued insistence on antiquated and obstructive stances, such as the Treaty of Guarantee, which would allow for future unilateral Turkish military interventions and is completely unacceptable and contradicts the governing principals of a European Union member state, led to the collapse of the Conference on Cyprus in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Moreover, Turkey refuses to withdraw its more than 40,000 illegally stationed troops on Cyprus. The withdrawal of Turkish troops would be a significant confidence building measure in the peace process. In addition, Turkey’s illegal activities and provocations in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and its illegal reopening of the Varosha beachfront in October, prohibit any real chance for the resumption of Cyprus settlement talks.

Furthermore, Turkey’s illegal occupation of Cyprus has had an impact upon The Committee on Missing Persons’ ability to access certain Turkish military installations on Cyprus to excavate the remains of Cypriots missing since the tragic events that occurred on the island for proper identification.

Please click here to download the fact sheet on Missing Persons. AHI supports a settlement of the Cyprus problem through: • Negotiations based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation in a state with a single sovereignty and international personality. • Incorporating the norms of a constitutional democracy embracing key American principles, the EU acquis communautaire and EU Founding Treaty, UN resolutions on Cyprus, the pertinent decisions of the European Court of Human Rights and of other European Courts -- as in the best interests of the United States. • Raising awareness of the consequences of Turkey’s illegal invasion, which include more than 180,000 illegal Turkish colonists/settlers in Cyprus – a violation of the Geneva Convention. • Raising awareness of the violation of religious freedom and destruction of cultural heritage in Turkish-occupied Cyprus.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 17 THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE

In 1994, AHI became the first organization to raise the issue of religious freedom and protection for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the spiritual home of the world’s oldest and second largest Christian Church, and the reopening of Halki Seminary with Congress and the executive branch. AHI advocates strongly its unequivocal position on what actions the U.S. government must take to secure religious freedom for the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Turkey. AHI urges the U.S. government to use its influence with the Turkish government to safeguard the Ecumenical Patriarchate, its personnel, and its property; and to reopen the Halki Patriarchal School of Theology. AHI underscores that, “Under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, the President is obligated to oppose violations of religious freedom in any country whose government ‘engages in or tolerates violations of religious freedom and promote the right to religious “It is unconscionable for the freedom in that country.’” The Act also obligates the President to U.S. State Department to even take one or more of 15 enumerated actions with respect to any consider a proposed MoU on such country. Furthermore, assaults upon the Greek Orthodox minority violate U.S. law, more specifically, Section 2804 of the cultural property from the Turkish 1998 Omnibus Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act (PL government, especially in the light 105-277), which also calls for the Turkish government to respect of its conversion of Hagia Sophia the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and its property and personnel, as well as the need to reopen the Halki Seminary. and the Chora Church in Istanbul. The Ecumenical Patriarchate and • The Turkish government’s suppression of religious freedom Orthodox Christians are under for minorities and tolerance of assaults upon Greek Orthodox Christian community as a further example of how Turkey is a assault by President Erdogan’s habitual violator of the rule of law and international norms is a regime. The last thing the State message AHI raised repeatedly in written testimony submitted Department should do is reward to Congress, meetings with members of Congress, and to the and provide an endorsement for State Department, including in a November 2020 letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo prior to his meeting with His such behavior and that is what the All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. proposed MoU would do.”

AHI also forewarned about developments in Turkey that — Nick Larigakis, AHI President unfortunately led to the eventual condemnable actions taken by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to convert Hagia Sophia and Church of St. Savior in Chora—UNESCO World Heritage Sites— to mosques. • In January, AHI testified to the State Department, urging it to reject Turkey’s request for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cultural property originating prior to 1924 because with the MoU’s approval, Erdogan would consider his intention to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque to be justified. Read: AHI’s letter to U.S. Department of State • In February, AHI condemned a Turkish administrative court’s ruling that denigrated Turkey’s Christian heritage and set an ominous precedent for the world-famous cathedral church of Hagia Sophia and directly affected Istanbul’s Church of St. Savior in Chora. AHI Legislative Director Elias Gerasoulis spoke to the American Bar Association’s Art and Cultural Heritage Law section about AHI’s work opposing Turkey’s proposed Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Property (MoU) on September 24th. Please click here and here to learn more about AHI’s efforts on this issue. An American Bar Association (ABA) publication published an article authored by Legislative Director Gerasoulis’ article, “American Hellenic Institute Stands Firm for Religious Freedom; Against Proposed MoU Between the U.S. and Turkey,” which lays out detailed arguments against Turkey’s proposed MoU on cultural property with the United States. Read: Fall 2020 edition of its newsletter.

ANNUAL REPORT 18 2020 KEEPING AN EYE ON TURKEY OUTREACH Throughout the year, AHI held meetings, both in person and via tele and video conference, on Capitol Hill and with policy AHI closely monitors Tur- makers in the Executive Branch, as it worked to advance the key’s provocations and Institute’s public policy agenda. violations in the Eastern Mediterranean to keep We are also fortunate to have friends with whom we advocate key U.S. government when our policy agendas align including the AHEPA, B’nai officials apprised of de- B’rith International, the Middle East Forum (MEF), velopments that affect PSEKA, Federation of Cypriot-American Organizations U.S. interests in the Eastern Mediterranean and are (FCAO), HALC, Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce and detrimental to allies and strategic partners, including the Armenian Assembly of America, among others. Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. Some examples of our work AHI works alongside these groups writing letters, hosting webinars and briefing Congress in an attempt to further our in 2020 include: reciprocal ideals. In 2020, we stood shoulder to shoulder at • Monitoring and summarizing a Turkish Heritage the Turkish Embassy with The Hellenic Center, AHEPA, the Organization webinar event, “Turkey’s National Laconian Society and the Hagia Sophia Preservation Security Strategy and Latest Security Developments Society to protest Turkey’s decision to change the status of in the Region.” The featured speaker was Turkish the Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque. Defense Minister, Hulusi Akar, who made false claims We also joined with nine organizations to send a including that Hagia Sophia is the property of Turkey coalition letter to the U.S. Department of State’s Cultural and therefor has sovereign rights. Property Advisory Committee (CPAC), citing “serious process issues” with the administration of the Cultural • Publishing a white paper critiquing the State Depart- Property Implementation Act that makes CPAC vulnerable ment’s misleading terrorism report. According to to approving Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) President Larigakis, “The report alleges that Turkey is with Middle Eastern countries that disrespect religious an ally in the global fight against terrorism . . . which minorities, such as Turkey. neglects to mention Turkey’s well-documented ties to ISIS, as well as its public and active support of terrorist groups such as Hamas.” • Monitoring and critiquing Turkey’s deepening ties with malign powers, actors, and influences. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has strengthened Turkey’s political and economic ties with China to the point where major trade publications, such as Foreign Policy, are now deeming Turkey to be a “Chinese client state.” AHI also highlighted Turkey’s harboring of Hamas in a recent terrorism white paper. • Reporting on details of Turkey’s attempt to influence Washington through lobbying contracts, political action committees, and the funding of think tanks. Elias Gerasoulis, Assembly Congressional Director Mariam Khaloyan, Nick Larigakis, Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny, and Assembly View the AHI report. Communications Director Danielle Saroyan • Critiquing the State Department report to Congress on Turkey’s violations of Greek airspace as deficient. Please Click Here to Read AHI Analyses of State Department Report to Congress on Airspace of “AHI and its legislative director, Elias Greece Under the Eastern Mediterranean and Gerasoulis, have been instrumental in Security Partnership Act of 2019. supporting GHA’s efforts against cultural Read the 2020 Policy Statement: Turkey’s Violations property MoUs that recognize the claims of in the Eastern Mediterranean and Broader Region repressive governments like that of Turkey’s to the cultural property of displaced religious and ethnic minorities.”

— Arthur Houghton, president, Global Heritage Alliance

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 19 Working with Congress AHI advanced the Institute’s public policy agenda during a series of virtual meetings, calls and correspondence with congressional and agency officials during 2020. AHI representatives who participated at the meetings varied for each one, but were comprised of: President Larigakis, Board Member Nicholas G. Karambelas, Esq., and Legislative Director Elias Gerasoulis. In most cases, they met with top- level congressional staff, including chiefs of staff, legislative directors, and national security advisers. • Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman, Senate Foreign Relations Committee • Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE), member, Committees (L-R) Consul General of Cyprus In New York, Alexis Phedonos-Vadet, on Appropriations, Foreign Relations with Director of Legislative Affairs Elias Gerasoulis • Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), member, Committees on Appropriations, Foreign Relations At the invitation of Consul General of Cyprus in New York Alexis Phedonos-Vadet, Legislative Director Gerasoulis • Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) made the presentation on the topic of AHI’s policy work • Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), member, to the leadership of the Knights of Vartan, Federation of Senate Committees on Foreign Relations Committee Cypriot American Organizations, and NEPOMAK, a Cypriot youth organization. As part of the presentation, Gerasoulis • Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the state of Hellenic-Armenian relations and AHI’s • Sen. John Enzi (R-WY) collaborative work with the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) and the Armenian Assembly of America. • Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), member, Senate President Larigakis participated in an online celebration of • Committees on Foreign Relations, Rules the 60th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus hosted by PSEKA – The International Coordinating • Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) Committee Justice for Cyprus, September 30. President • Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), senior member, Larigakis provided remarks alongside members of Congress, House Committee on Foreign Affairs Cypriot and Greek government officials, and other leaders of Greek and Cypriot American organizations. Larigakis • Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), co-chair, conveyed the importance of resolving the injustices Cyprus Congressional Hellenic Caucus faces so that “Cyprus and the people of Cyprus can be whole, • Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH) free and at peace.” • Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), senior member, House Committee on Foreign Affairs • Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) • Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs • Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) • Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) • Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX) • Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL) • Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) Virtual Commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of the Independence of • Rep. Mike Conaway (R-TX) the Republic of Cyprus hosted by PSEKA • Rep. Ron Wright (R-TX), member, House Committee on Foreign Affairs • Rep. Steve King (R-IA) In addition, AHI joined with the Congressional Hellenic Caucus to condemn Turkish President Erdogan’s active support for a two-state solution in Cyprus and the illegal reopening of the beach in Varosha. Please click here to read the caucus’ letter to Secretary of State Pompeo.

ANNUAL REPORT 20 2020 46TH COMMEMORATION OF THE ILLEGAL TURKISH INVASION OF CYPRUS AHI, in cooperation with the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, hosted an online event, July 22, 2020.

HIGHLIGHTS OF MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS AT THE EVENT

“AHI is doing a tremendous “The good news is that job…and it is important that bilateral relations and ties your team and leadership between the United States manifest on capitol hill. and Cyprus are strong There is a good bipartisan and getting stronger.” group of members who – Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) understand the problems associated with Turkey and Cyprus, and speak out on those issues all the time.” “It’s really amazing to me – Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) how we sustained this effort because 46 years is a long time and there’s been many “AHI has been the frustrations along the way, champion of this issue but we are not giving up… from the very beginning, We know what the right and memory eternal for result has to be. We know the Gene Rossides…he is the island has to be reunified. original golden Greek.” We know that justice has – Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) to be brought to bear.” – Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD)

“A stable and reunified “I am committed to Cyprus benefits the United doing everything I can to States, the entire Eastern make sure the U.S. plays a Mediterranean, and most of positive role in supporting all, all Cypriots themselves Cyprus’s development who deserve to live without and its sovereignty.” the looming presence of – Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) the Turkish military.” – Rep Carolyn Maloney (D-NY)

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 21 “Both our partnership with “Turkey under the leadership Cyprus and our trilateral of President Erdogan dialogue with Israel, Greece, continues to demonstrate and Cyprus are critical to aggressive behavior, not only our security, but to garnering the world’s energy security for Europe.” attention and concern.” – Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) – Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL)

“I have supported the “…this day means a lot independence movement to me, and I think about for Cyprus since before my it every year and what my time in Congress. My father grandfather went through Donald M. Payne Sr. was to become an American.” - very passionate about the – Rep. Charlie Crist (D-FL) relationship between the U.S. and Cyprus. He believed that the U.S. should take actions to remove the Turkish forces from Cyprus.” “…right now, Turkey is just – Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ) behaving in such a way that the U.S. just shouldn’t tolerate. We can’t let them “And let’s be clear about continue to get away with what happened. That was a things. We have missing war of displacement. Turkey people, we have sacred sites was not defending itself, being destroyed, artifacts but rather sought to expand being stolen…Turkey is its area of influence by not a good ally and we forcing over 150,000 Greek should not trust them.” Cypriots from their homes, – Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) dividing communities, and a nation, and creating a generation of refugees.” “This is such an important – Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) day to commemorate…I know the impact of the Turkish invasion is really still deeply felt by families across the region and even right here in the United States, and in my home district in Queens, New York.” – Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY)

Nick Lariakis, Nicholas Karambelas, Amb. Marios Lyssiotis; Amb. Alexandra Papadopoulou, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 22 AHI ADVANCED THE INSTITUTE’S PUBLIC AHI ADVANCED THEPOLICY INSTITUTE’S AGENDA PUBLIC IN WASHINGTON POLICY AGENDA IN WASHINGTON

HOUSE OFFICE MEETINGS STATE DEPARTMENT Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., (D-NJ) Matthew Palmer, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European & Eurasian Affairs Rep. Brad Sherman, (D-CA) * Maria Olson, Director, Office of Southern Rep. Carolyn Maloney, (D-NY) ǂ Europe, Bureau of European & Eurasian Affairs Rep. Chris Pappas, (D-NH) Ross Johnston, Greek Desk Officer, Rep. Chris Smith, (R-NJ) * Bureau of European & Eurasian Affairs Rep. Dan Crenshaw, (R-TX) Isabelle Chan, Cyprus Desk Officer, Rep. Eliot Engel, (D-NY) * Bureau of European & Eurasian Affairs Rep. Jan Schakowsky, (D-IL) Alice Shukla, Desk Officer, Rep. Jeff Van Drew, (R-NJ) Bureau of European & Eurasian Affairs Rep. John Ratcliffe, (R-TX) Rep. John Rutherford, (R-FL) DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Rep. Maxine Waters, (D-CA) Deanna DeSante, Deputy Rep. Mike Conaway, (R-TX) Director, European Policy Rep. Ron Wright, (R-TX) * Rep. Steve King, (R-IA) DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Rep. Gus Bilirakis, (R-FL) ǂ Robert Sandoli, Director, Office of Rep. John Sarbanes, (D-MD) European and Eurasian Affairs

SENATE OFFICE MEETINGS Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) * Sen. Chris Coons, (D-DE) * § Sen. Chris Van Hollen, (D-MD) § Sen. Gary Peters, (D-MN) Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) *§ Sen. John Cornyn, (R-TX) Sen. Mike Enzi, (R-WY) “The American Hellenic Institute is Sen. Ted Cruz, (R-TX) an organization which contributes Sen. Marco Rubio, (R-FL) to the strengthening of the bond between the USA and Greece.”

— Greece’s Minister of National Defense * Foreign Affairs Committee Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos during a § Appropriations Committee Virtural Speakers Forum in honor of ǂ Congressional Hellenic Caucus (Co-Chair) Hellenic Armed Forces Day, November 18, 2020.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 23 AHI submitted written testimony to the House and Working with the Executive Branch Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs on the Trump Throughout the year, AHI stayed in touch with policy makers Administration’s foreign aid proposal for FY2021, and also at the Departments of State, Energy and Defense. fought to secure IMET program funding for Cyprus in • In March, AHI representatives spoke with Robert Sandoli, Director of the Office of European and Eurasian Affairs at the Department of Energy about the geopolitical and economic impact of energy resources in the Eastern Mediterranean. • On April 9th, AHI held a conference call for its Board of Directors and staff with Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Matthew Palmer. “We reiterated our message that the United States must be vigilant as historically during times of crisis or major distraction, Turkey has shown a tendency to create external disturbances to distract from domestic problems. Even during a pandemic, Turkey continues to be an instigator of provocative behavior with violations of Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) With President Larigakis & AHI Members Greece’s airspace.” • On May 28th, AHI and U.S. Department of State officials engaged in a virtual meeting to discuss developments in written testimony to congressional appropriators and in the Eastern Mediterranean. meetings with key members of Congress. • On September 1st, AHI participated on a conference call AHI’s Delaware Members Organize Virtual Meeting with U.S organized by the U.S. State Department to discuss Turkish Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), a senior member of the Foreign provocations impacting the Eastern Mediterranean with Relations Committee on November 24. AHI members of Greek American organizations. Delaware who participated include Demitrios Halakos, George Rassias, James Maravelias, & Spiros Mantzavinos. AHI COLLABORATES WITH CONGRESS ON “ENERGY AND THE EVOLVING GEOPOLITICS IN THE EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN”

AHI, in collaboration with U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and under the auspices of the Congressional Energy and National Security Caucus, held a congressional briefing on March 3. featuring panelists Josh Volz, U.S. Department of State; Simon Henderson, Washington Institute for Near East Policy; and Douglas Hengel, German Marshall Fund. Former U.S. Ambassador to Qatar Patrick N. Theros moderated the briefing. Volz’s presentation highlighted the promise and benefits of energy development in the Eastern Mediterranean, including the possibility of (L-R) Former U.S. Ambassador to Qatar Patrick N. Theros, Douglas Hengel, German energy development as a facilitator to address Marshall Fund, Josh Volz, U.S. Department of State; Simon Henderson, Washington the Cyprus issue. Volz also criticized Turkey for Institute for Near East Policy, at the March 3rd Congressional Energy Briefing its “provocative” actions in interfering in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone. He believes commercial interests are too strong to allow Turkey to stymie the development of the Eastern Mediterranean as an energy hub. Henderson and Hengel also highlighted the potential challenges of the Eastern Mediterranean becoming an energy hub, including continued Turkish interference. They also raised the costs and logistical challenges of the proposed East Med Pipeline, which, if completed, would be one of the most expensive pipelines in modern history. Representatives from the Embassies of Greece and Republic of Cyprus attended the briefing, which received media coverage in the Athens News Agency and Hellas Journal.

ANNUAL REPORT 24 2020 • AHI held three separate one-hour conference calls for its board of directors and staff with Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Matthew Palmer and Greek Ambassador to the U.S. Alexandra Papadopoulou, October 20th and with Cypriot Ambassador to the U.S. Marios Lysiotis, October 22nd. • In addition, President Larigakis and Legislative Director Gerasoulis held a conference call meeting with Deanna DeSante, deputy director, European Policy, Department of Defense. Greek Minister of National Defense Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos VIRTUAL SPEAKERS FORUMS Circumstances brought on by the coronavirus pandemic prompted AHI to launch its first ever Virtual Speakers Forum series. Almost weekly from May through July and in the fall we hosted experts on a variety of topics to participate in panel discussions and answer questions. The series was well-received and captivated audiences from around the world.

Greece’s Minister of Tourism Haris Theoharis, with Nick Larigakis, Tim Ananiadis, and Konstantinos Georgiadis

• “An Analysis of the 2020 U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom Report: Its Implication for the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Religious Freedom in Turkey.” Panelists: Hon. B. Theodore Bozonelis, National Secretary Amb. Alexandra Papadopoulou, Nick Larigakis and Amb. Marios Lysiotis of the Order of Saint Andrew; Dr. Elizabeth H. Prodromou, visiting Associate Professor of Conflict Resolution at An inaugural forum featured Ambassador of Greece to Tufts Univ.; Piero A. Tozzi, Senior Foreign Policy Advisor the U.S. Alexandra Papadopoulou and Ambassador of & Counsel to Rep. Christopher Smith (R-NJ); Moderator: the Republic of Cyprus to the U.S. Marios Lysiotis. The John Metaxas, Broadcast Journalist two discussed Greece and Cyprus’ effective response to the coronavirus pandemic and how the two countries promote • “Turmoil in the Eastern Mediterranean: How Far Will stability in the region amid continued hostility. This and Turkey Go?” Panelists: Dr. Constantine Arvanitopoulos, each of the 14 speaker’s forums can be found on AHI’s Professor of International Relations, Fletcher School of YouTube Channel. Topics include: Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University; Doug Bandow, Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute; and Dr. Thanos Dokos, • “World War II’s Battle of Crete.” Panelists: Col. Vasileios Alternate National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister Lampropoulos, Defense and Military attaché, Embassy of Greece of Greece in Washington, D.C. and Emmanuel Velivasakis, past president, Pancretan Association of America and the • “Greece is Ready to Welcome You: What You Need to Know.” World Council of Cretans. Panelists: Harry Theoharis, Minister of Tourism of the Hellenic Republic; Tim Ananiadis, GM/MD, Hotel Grande • “The Current State of Sports in America” Panelists: Bretagne & King George and Konstantinos Georgiadis, Christine Brennan, sports columnist for USA Today and a Vice President & GM, Amphitrion Holidays. commentator on ABC News; Tommy Greene, former Major League Baseball pitcher and current baseball analyst for • The Missing Persons in Cyprus from 1974: Turkey’s NBC Sports Philly; and George Veras, COO and executive Legacy Continues.” Panelists: Photis Photiou, Presidential producer of the Pro Football Hall of Fame; Moderator: Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Overseas Larry Michael, chief content officer, senior vice president, Cypriots and Xenophon Kallis, Director of Service for and voice of the Washington Redskins Missing Persons.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 25 AHI published a record of public statements made by President Donald J. Trump, Administration officials, and Democratic presidential nominee and former Vice President Joseph Biden, Jr., on issues of importance to Greek Americans. • View Statements Made by President Trump and Vice-President Biden • View Statements Made by Trump Administration Officials AHI received responses from both presidential campaigns. • Excerpt from “Greek Voices For Trump” Statement Ambassador Andrew Jacovides, former Ambassador of Cyprus • Read the Biden-Harris campaign response AHI President Briefed on Aegean Tensions by Government Officials, Top Military Leaders in Greece

AHI Legal Counsel Nicholas AHI President Nick Larigakis completed a series of meetings Karambelas, Esq. in Greece, September 1 to 9, 2020. The timely meetings provided President Larigakis with firsthand and detailed • “The Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone: Law of the Sea accounts of the situation in the Aegean Sea due to Turkey’s (UNCLOS) and Turkey’s Maritime Claims.” Panelists: provocations. Larigakis’ meetings included a visit to two Ambassador (ret.) Andrew Jacovides, and Nicholas military bases, including the Souda Bay military complex Karambelas, Esq., Sfikas & Karambelas, LLP. located in Crete. • The 46th Commemoration of the Illegal Turkish Invasion President Larigakis met with: U.S. Ambassador Geoffrey of Cyprus Pyatt at the ambassador’s residence; Alternate National Security Adviser to the Prime Minster of Greece Dr. Thanos • “Impact of the 2020 Election: U.S. Policy in the Eastern Dokos, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Kostas Vlasis, Mediterranean” Panelists: Dr. Ted Carpenter, Senior Minister Plenipotentiary for the A7 Directorate for North Fellow for Defense and Foreign Policy Studies at the America Fragkiskos Kostellenos, and Diplomatic Adviser to Cato Institute, and Dr. Andrew Novo, Associate Professor Main Opposition Leader of SYRIZA Alexis Tsipras, Evangelos of Strategic Studies at National Defense University. Kalpadakis. Moderator: Nicholas Chimicles, Esq., Senior Partner, Chimicles Schwartz Kriner & Donaldson LLP. In addition, President Larigakis met with all the top military leaders of Greece at the Ministry of National Defense, • “Commemorating the 98th Anniversary of the Smyrna including Minister of Defense Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos Catastrophe.” Panelists: Dr. Constantine Hatzidimitriou, and Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff Former Adjunct Associate Professor, Byzantine and General Konstantinos Floros. Additional meetings at the Modern Greek Studies Center, Queens College/ CUNY; Defense Ministry included: Chief of the Hellenic Navy George Mavropoulos, Founder, Asia Minor and Pontos General Staff Vice Admiral Stylianos Petrakis, Chief of the Hellenic Research Center (AMPHRC) Hellenic Airforce General Staff Lt. Gen. Georgios Blioumis, and Chief of the Hellenic Army General Staff Lt. General • “Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of OXI Day.” Charalampos Lalousis. Panelists: Dr. Thomas Gallant, Professor of Modern Greek History and Archaeology at the Center for Hellenic Studies at the University of California, San Diego, and Dr. S. Victor Papacosma, Professor Emeritus of History and Director Emeritus at the Lemnitzer Center for NATO and European Union Studies at Kent State University. • “2500 Years Since Thermopylae and Salamis: Their Continuing Relevance for Today.” Panelists: Mayor Petros Doukas, Mayor of Sparta, and Ambassador (ret.) Alexandros Mallias. • “Greek Defense Policy Briefing” featuring Minister Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos, Greek Minister of National Defense

Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt with AHI President Nick Larigakis

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 26 Nick Larigakis, exchanging gifts with Chief of the Hellenic Navy General Nick Larigakis, presenting Greek Minister of Defense, Nikolaos Staff, Vice Admiral Stylianos Petrakis, at the Greek Ministry of Defense. Panagiototpoulos, with a personalized Philadelphia Phillies baseball jersey.

Nick Larigakis, with Executive Office Director of the Hellenic Army General Nick Larigakis, with Chief of the Hellenic Airforce General Staff, Lt. Gen. Staff, Brigadier General, Panagiotis Kavidopoulos. Georgios Blioumis, at the Greek Ministry of Defense.

Nick Larigakis with Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, Chief of the Hellenic Army General Staff, Lt. Gen. Charalampos Lalousis, Gen. Konstantinos Floros, at the Greek Ministry of Defense. presenting Nick Larigakis, with an aerial map of his hometown of Glossa, Skopelos.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 27 AHI President Visited Souda Bay, Crete & Tanagra Military Bases American and Greek military officials held briefings for President Larigakis at Souda Bay. They included: Souda Naval Base Commander Commodore Ioannis Sarrigiannis, HN; Commanding Officer of U.S. Naval Support Activity Captain Rafael Facundo; Commanding Officer of NMIOTC at Souda Bay Commodore Panayotis Papanikolaou; and Commanding Officer of the Hellenic Airforce 115 Combat Wing Col. Ioannis Chatzigeorgiou. Commodore Papanikolaou also arranged a speed boat tour of Souda Bay for President Larigakis. “Souda Bay is the most important air and naval presence in the Mediterranean Sea,” Larigakis said. “It is vital to U.S. strategic interests, NATO’s mission, and to U.S.-Greece defense and security cooperation.”

Also, Larigakis toured Tanagra Military Air Base where the (L-R) Nick Larigakis with Commanding Officer of U.S. Naval Support 331 and 332 Mirage Fighter Wings are stationed and gave Activity, Capt. Rafael Facundo and Commanding Officer of NMIOTC at an exclusive interview to To Vima. Souda Bay, Commodore Panayotis Papanikolaou

Nick Larigakis testing out an F-16 simulator with Commanding Officer of Nick Larigakis, with Souda Naval Base Commander, Commodore Ioannis the Hellenic Airforce 115 Combat Wing, Col. Ioannis Chatzigeorgiou, at Sarrigiannis HN at Souda Bay, Crete Souda Bay, Crete

Nick Larigakis visits 331 and 332 Mirage Fighter Wing at Tanagra Military Base

ANNUAL REPORT 28 2020 AHI Actively Engaged during Greek Prime Minister’s U.S. Visit

Prime Minister Mitsotakis (L) Speaking With AHIF President Costas Galanis

(L-R) U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, Prime Minister Mitsotakis of Greece, Later that evening, Presi- and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, at U.S. Department of State dent Larigakis and AHI reception, in honor of Prime Minister Mitsotakis. Foundation President Gala- AHI was actively engaged during Prime Minister Kyriakos nis represented AHI at a Mitsotakis’ multi-day visit to the United States in January. State Department recep- tion hosted by Vice Presi- During the Prime Minister’s visit to Washington, AHI co- dent Mike Pence and Secre- hosted a luncheon for the Prime Minister at the Willard tary of State Mike Pompeo Hotel, January 8. AHI President Larigakis, AHI Foundation in honor of Prime Minister President Costas Galanis, and an additional eight board Mitsotakis. members represented the organization at the luncheon. President Larigakis and Leg- islative Director Gerasoulis attended Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ remarks to the Atlantic Council, a Wash- AHI President Larigakis engaging in ington, D.C.-based think a brief discussion with Secretary of tank, January 7. Also that State Mike Pompeo. day, President Larigakis was invited to participate in a White House conference call focused on Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ meeting with President Trump. Out of 86 indi- viduals participating in the call, President Larigakis was one of the six who asked a question in the off-the-record con- versation.

(L-R) AHEPA Supreme President George Horiates, Greece’s Minister of President Larigakis also had the opportunity to engage with Defense Nikos Panagiotopoulos, AHI President Nick Larigakis, and AHIF Prime Minister Mitsotakis on multiple occasions during the President Costas Galanis. Prime Minister’s historic visit to Tarpon Springs, Fla., January 5 and 6.

AHI President Larigakis Engaging In A Brief Discussion With Vice President AHI President Larigakis (L) With Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis Mike Pence (R) In Tarpons Springs, Florida

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 29 American Hellenic, American Jewish Groups Hail Fourth Leadership Mission

A 22-member delegation of leaders of the American Hellenic and American Jewish organizations completed a fourth, three-country Leadership Mission to Greece, Cyprus and Israel, to explore the major political, economic and security developments underway in the eastern Mediterranean and to advance the interests of the United States in the region. The group held meetings with more than 30 high-ranking (L-R) Kostas Alexakis, Leon Andris, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikos government and military officials and policy analysts from Christodoulidis and Nick Larigakis. the three countries and the United States, January 11 – 17. The participating organizations included: the American Hellenic Institute (AHI), the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (Order of AHEPA), B’nai B’rith International, and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Please visit www.ahiworld.org/press-releases for the Mission’s complete itinerary in Israel, Cyprus, and Greece and the Mission’s participants.

Joint Delegation members at meeting with Foreign Policy Advisor AHI & AHEPA delegations meet with His Beatitude Theophilos III, to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Head of Foreign Policy Patriarch of Jerusalem and All Palestine. Department, National Security Council, Reuven Azar.

Joint Delegation members meeting with the President of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, at the Presidential Palace.

Joint delegation members meeting with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis

ANNUAL REPORT 30 2020 IMPACT at the U.S. Department of State, provided the following Policy Impact response: “Since 1974, the American Hellenic “As you know, the U.S. relationship with Greece has never been better. The Department will continue to Institute has been an important rule of support our NATO Ally Greece in this difficult time, law advocate in Washington and has as the United States stood with Greece during its last decade of economic hardship. We deeply value Greece’s been actively working in order to promote contributions as a pillar of stability in the region. bilateral relations between Greece and Greece’s support for the NATO accession of North Macedonia, our newest Ally, exemplifies its constructive the United States.” leadership role. The Department recognizes the Eastern – President of the Hellenic Republic Mediterranean as an important strategic region, and Katerina Sakellaropoulou, April 9, 2020 we are committed to remain engaged and focused on ensuring the region is peaceful and prosperous for the Evidence of AHI’s hard work toward advancing our public benefit of the United States, our Allies, and our partners. policy goals was on display in 2020 in: 1.) the ongoing “Thank you for sharing your views on Turkey’s recent U.S.-Greece Strategic Dialogue 2.) Prime Minister Kyriakos foreign policy behavior. The United States and Greece Mitsotakis’ White House meeting with President Donald share a conviction that it is crucial for our countries Trump in January and 3.) Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s individually, for the NATO Alliance, and for the Eastern historic second visit to Athens, a first for a Secretary of Mediterranean region that Turkey remain rooted in State, which included a visit to Souda Bay. These are all Western institutions. The United States welcomes demonstrations that the U.S.-Greece relationship is a Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ outreach to Turkey, and the healthy one and continues to be at a high point. There is United States will continue to encourage actions that a mutual commitment from both countries to deepen lower tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and call on their cooperation and relationship across many sectors, all countries in the region to refrain from provocative especially defense and security. The revised Mutual Defense activities. Cooperation Agreement between the United States and Greece illustrates the two allies’ commitment to address “Thank you, as always, for your engagement on these over a longer term the security challenges in the region. issues and for sharing your views with the Department.” In addition, AHI welcomed several key advancements The U.S. Department of State responded to President in 2020 indicating that the U.S. Government recognizes Larigakis’ April 22, 2020 letter to Secretary of State Mike Greece as an important player in international commerce Pompeo on the issue of removing the arms prohibition on and trade, including the decision to delist Greece from the the Republic of Cyprus. Special 301 Report that strengthened economic relations and the signing of a U.S.-Greece Science and Technology Head of State Department’s European & Eurasian Bureau, Agreement in September. AHI looks forward to future U.S.- Ambassador Philip T. Reeker responds to AHI’s letter to Greece economic relationships that pursue commercial Secretary Pompeo to convey grave concern about Turkey’s partnerships and opportunities for more U.S. investment in demonstrated willingness to cause instability in the Eastern Greece. AHI achieved a significant policy victory when the Mediterranean. Read Ambassador Reeker’s Letter to AHI. Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) announced The U.S. Department of a policy shift that stated the agency can do business in State responded to Presi- Greece. Since then, OPIC underwent a transformation dent Larigakis’ letter to to become the U.S. International Development Finance Secretary of State Mike Corporation (DFC). Following its transformation, AHI Pompeo t h a t conveyed reengaged with DFC to explore further ways to attract the Institute’s outrage at investment to Greece. Turkey’s illegal reopening In 2020, as we do every year, AHI put our public policy agenda of the beach in Varosha, on the record with policymakers at the State Department calling the act “provoca- and other executive level agencies. One measure of our tive.” Please click here to impact is the replies we receive. For example: view full response from Deputy Assistant Sec- The State Department responded to President Larigakis’ retary of State, Matthew March 24, 2020 letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Palmer. President Larigakis wrote to Secretary Pompeo out of concern the international community will lose its focus on Greek and Cypriot Ameri- Turkey’s tendency to cause instability in the region amid the can organizations, includ- coronavirus pandemic. ing the American Hellenic Institute (AHI), received Maria Olson, director, Office of Southern European Affairs a response from the Na- tional Security Council

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 31 “AHI continues to engage with the State Department to address the concerns of the Greek American community created by Turkey’s ongoing provocations, including its illegal reopening of Varosha and its latest announced survey in the Aegean. We continue to press upon the State Department that Turkey is a failed ally and must be held accountable.” Nick Larigakis, AHI President “Secretary Pompeo’s visit was truly a historic one. His frequent engagement with Greek government officials during his tenure is evident of Greece’s rising status as a valued ally for the United States. We are pleased with Secretary Pompeo’s fresh approach to draw a distinction between Greece and Turkey’s behavior instead of the usual, recycled false equivalency.” — AHI President Nick Larigakis

(NSC) that addressed the United States’ position on the reopening of Varosha by Turkish authorities and its impact “The article trivializes the geo-political upon Cyprus settlement talks in addition to the imposition dynamics of the region by oversimplifying the of sanctions on Turkey for its procurement of the Russian issues and simply describes the developments S-400 air defense system. The NSC’s December 29 letter is a response to an October 30 joint letter the organizations in the region as a ‘Greek-Turkish’ dispute. By sent to President Donald J. Trump, encouraging him to not talking about or glossing over Turkey’s take steps to hold Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan aggressive posture towards many other and the Turkish government accountable for their actions in the region. The organizations conveyed outrage countries in the region, such as Cyprus, over Turkey’s illegal reopening of the beach in Varosha, Israel, Egypt, the Gulf States, and EU powers President Erdogan’s open declaration of support for a two- such as France, the New York Times is, state solution in Cyprus, and Turkey’s overall destabilizing whether intentional or unintentional, behavior and malign influence. Please Click Here to Read December, 29 2020 National Security Letter putting Greece and Turkey at parity, when it is Turkey which is the aggressor nation.” In the fall 2020 edition of its newsletter, the American Bar Association published an article by Legislative Director — Nick Larigakis, Letter to the Editor, Sep. 1, 2020 Gerasoulis on AHI’s firm stance for religious freedom in opposition to Turkey’s proposed Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. on cultural property. “Despite the limitations of COVID-19, AHI continues to engage policymakers, albeit virtually, on our policy agenda. Turkey is a habitual violator of the rule of law, including U.S. laws, for which it needs to be held to account. We appreciated the time and interest of policymakers to discuss issues of importance to the Greek American community.” — AHI President Nick Larigakis

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 32 MEDIA IMPACT

about the 2,000-pound gorilla in the room. You can’t talk about the area without, unfortunately, the negative impact that Turkey has on the region,” he told Mr. Dabbs in response to Turkish provocations. The National Herald hosted a virtual, live interview with U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), who was the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, July 29. The National Herald’s Co-Editor and Publisher Eraklis Diamataris interviewed Senator Menendez. The discussion focused on Greece, Cyprus, and other matters of U.S. foreign policy. AHI staff monitored the event. On May 25, The National Herald published a letter to the Nick Larigakis on RT America’s “The News with Rick Sanchez” program. editor titled, “Ask Erdogan about the Lobby,” in response to an editorial with the same title published in its May 17th’s edition. In 2020, AHI issued a record combined 161 press releases, statements, and announcements that were widely Several Greek media outlets interviewed President Larigakis distributed to mainstream, Greek American, and foreign to gain perspective on the U.S. election and its potential press, the Administration, Congress, and AHI members and impact on U.S. policy toward Greece and Cyprus. Greek friends. AHI also regularly submitted letters to the editors to television stations MEGA-TV and ERT1; radio station, ERT3 correct the record of publications and wrote commentaries 102 FM; and newspapers, To Vima and Ta NEA, interviewed to present AHI’s policy positions to key audiences. In Larigakis as part of their U.S. election coverage. Please see addition, AHI principals appeared for interviews on tv and Nick Larigakis media appearances here. Click here for NEA radio outlets. article in Greek. Click here for English. We are proud to share some highlights of those efforts. AHI Executive Assistant and Director of Research Emily “I view this as another systemic violation of Greece’s territorial Pandis reported on the 2020 U.S. election throughout the integrity and Greece will not stand for it,” said Nick Larigakis week as a correspondent for SKAI. Pandis appeared on during a March 6th appearance on RT America’s “The News television and radio outlets, providing live coverage and with Rick Sanchez” program with Faran Fronczak. updates from Washington, DC. Please see Emily Pandis media appearances here President Larigakis provided an exclusive interview to Angelos Athanasopoulos of To Vima that appeared in Ekathimerini published AHI Board Member and volunteer the September 13th, Sunday edition. The interview covered Counsel Nicholas G. Karambelas’ article titled “Turkey the upcoming U.S. presidential election and what to expect violates US law when its F-16s fly over the Aegean,” on from each candidate’s policy on the Eastern Mediterranean. January 17. National Journal Reporter Brian Dabbs reached out to Hellenic News of America published a feature titled, “AHI President Larigakis for the Institute’s perspective on current continues to seek justice for Cyprus 46 years later” on tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. “We’ve got to talk July 17.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 33 CNN Greece published a feature titled, “Greek American Students Traveled to Greece and Cyprus…Virtually” on July 16th. Read Greek version here. Read English version here. To Vima, a leading newspaper based in Athens, Greece, highlighted the AHI role to educate President-elect Joe Biden on issues concerning Greece and Cyprus since the 1974 invasion of Cyprus in a feature article titled, “The Unknown Story of the ‘Hellenization’ of Joe Biden.” on December 4. Important to note: In the 1970s, Dr. Dean C. Lomis, who served as AHI’s Public Affairs Committee chairman for eight years, and a constituent of then-Senator Emily Pandis reported on the 2020 U.S. election throughout the week as Biden’s, spearheaded the effort to properly educate Biden a correspondent for SKAI. on U.S. policy issues impacting Greece and Cyprus. In October, Neo Magazine and the Hellenic News of America published a commentary authored by AHI President Nick Larigakis titled, “Biden or Trump: Does it make a difference for U.S. Policy in the Eastern Mediterranean?”

Nick Larigakis interviewed by ERT1 on the U.S. election and its potential impact on U.S. policy toward Greece and Cyprus.

Nick Larigakis on MEGA-TV’s “BAVEL” Emily Pandis on SKAI TV “U.S. Presidential Elections 2020”

ANNUAL REPORT 34 2020 GENERAL NEWS Welcoming Visitors

(L-R) AHI President Larigakis with Deputy Foreign Minister for Greeks (L-R) Maria Olson, Director, Office of Southern European Abroad, Kostas Vlassis Affairs, with AHI President Larigakis

AHI welcomed Maria Olson, director, Office of Southern European Affairs, and Ross Johnston, Greek desk officer, represented the State Department to Hellenic House in February to discuss Turkish aggression in the Eastern Mediterranean and Greece’s important role as a pillar of stability in the region.

(L-R) Kostas Bakoyiannis, Mayor of Athens, with AHI President Nick Larigakis at Hellenic House.

We’re grateful that we were able to welcome a few visitors Priest flanked by AHI-Athens President George Economou and AHI-Athens Vice President Vice Admiral Vasileios Kyriazis at the second annual AHI this year prior to the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Vasilopita-cutting ceremony at the Athens Club. In February, President Larigakis met with two Greek public officials during their visit to Washington, D.C.: Deputy AHI held its second annual Vasilopita-cutting ceremony at Foreign Minister for Greeks Abroad, Konstantinos Vlasis and the Athens Club on January 19. “The ceremony was a great the Mayor of Athens, Kostas Bakoyannis. way to kick-off the New Year for AHI’s Athens chapter, and we AHI published two book reviews by AHI Board Member are excited for another productive year in Greece,” President Van Coufoudakis, Ph.D., who is Dean Emeritus of the Larigakis said. AHI-Athens President George Economou College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University-Purdue addressed the audience reflecting on the year that was for University, and Rector Emeritus, University of Nicosia, Greece. AHI-Athens Vice President Vice Admiral Vassilios Nicosia, Cyprus. Kyriazis provided greetings. The First Greek Ambassador to the American Federation 1867-1868—From the Memoirs of Alexandros Rizos Rangavis The Greek Genocide in American Naval War Diaries—Naval Commanders Report and Protest Death Marches and Massacres in Turkey’s Pontus Region, 1921-1922

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 35 17th Annual AHI Golf Classic

17th Annual AHI Golf Classic attendees AHI hosted its 17th Annual Golf Classic at Belle Haven Country Club, Alexandria, Va., on October 19th. Sixty golfers participated. Special guest Michael Wilbon, ESPN analyst and Pardon the Interruption co-host, led the Sports Presentation and Q&A. The Tournament Sponsor was Calamos Investments, represented by Senior Wealth Advisor Paris Karasso and Chief of Staff Yannis Sianis. Peter Bota served as Tournament Chairman.

First-place team (L-R) Mario Marinucci, Taso Scilaris, Tom Mavrikes and Gus Sports Panel Presentation guest, ESPN analyst, Michael Wilbon Scilaris

SAVE THE DATE

OCTOBER 18, 2021 BELLE HAVEN COUNTRY CLUB 18TH ANNUAL 6023 Fort Hunt Road, GOLF CLASSIC Alexandria, VA

ANNUAL REPORT 36 2020 Panel Discussions President Larigakis participated as a moderator of an interview with former Greek Minister of Defense and retired Admiral Evangelos Apostolakis at the Ideagen EU Global Goals Summit on July 14. The interview aired on Ideagen TV on July 23. The two discussed how Greece is supporting and advancing U.S. interests in the region, Turkey’s ambitions for regional hegemony and the challenges that it poses to Greece’s territorial sovereignty. “If you want to hold the peace in the area, and you declare that you are the one who helps on this direction, you have to do something, not just declarations, just words are not enough,” Apostolakis said. Nick Larigakis with Symeon Tsomokos, founder of the Delphi Economic Forum, and AHEPA Supreme President George Horiates.

The Delphi Economic Forum’s 2nd Southeast Europe & East Med Conference featured President Larigakis as a panelist on the discussion topic, “Diaspora Organizations in International Affairs,” on December 16. New Faces We welcomed six additions to our Board of Directors Participants For “NHS Stories: Reflections on Greek America” effective January 1. We are pleased to welcome a dynamic President Larigakis participated as a panelist during the group of professionals, each of whom brings a unique set of online event, “NHS Stories: Reflections on Greek America,” expertise and resources to AHI. They are: th July 30 . National Hellenic Society (NHS) hosted the event • Timothy Ananiadis, Athens, Greece, was the Managing in collaboration with the National Hellenic Museum for Director and General Manager of the Hotel Grande the “NHS Talks Stories” series. Panelists included: Basil Bretagne & King George from 2003 to 2020. Mossaidis, executive director, American Hellenic Education Progressive Association (AHEPA), Mike Manatos, executive • Elizabeth Z. Bartz, Akron, Ohio, who is the founder, director, Washington OXI Day Foundation, and Dr. James president, and CEO of State and Federal Communications, Dimitriou, chairman of the American Hellenic Council (AHC) Inc. of California. Frosene Phillips, executive director of the Elios Society, moderated the discussion. • Nico Bamberger Priskos, Salt Lake City, Utah, who is managing partner of InterNet Properties, and an alumnus of the AHI Foundation’s Student Foreign Policy Abroad Trip. • Yanni Sianis, Chicago, Ill., who is the Chief of Staff to Calamos Investments. • Paul P. Sogotis, Burlingame, Calif., who is President and CEO of Pacific Coast Maritime Agencies, Inc. • John Vasiliou, Philadelphia, Pa., who is the principal and vice-president of Astra Foods. We take this opportunity to congratulate our long-time Virtual Hermes Expo, Project Director Aphrodite Kotrotsios, Nick Larigakis board member Leon Andris on his recent appointment and Nicholas G. Karambelas. as Vice-Chair of the new Metropolis Council for the Holy Metropolis of New Jersey. We are very proud of Leon for The first-ever Virtual Hermes Expo held a discussion his commitment to serving the Archdiocese and the Greek on tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean that featured American community. President Larigakis and volunteer AHI Legal Counsel Nicholas G. Karambelas, Esq. The discussion titled, “Current Developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and U.S. Relations with Greece and Cyprus,” was held September 29. The Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) invited President Larigakis to provide a comprehensive overview of the unresolved Cyprus conflict and AHI’s advocacy to enforce the rule of law on the Cyprus issue on November 20. 2020 ANNUAL REPORT 37 We are pleased to announce the FOUNDATION NEWS hire of Emily Pandis as the Insti- tute’s Executive Assistant and Di- American Journal of Contemporary Hellenic rector of Research. Issues “I am proud and honored to join AHIF released its eleventh volume of its policy journal, the the AHI team on a full-time ba- American Journal of Contemporary Hellenic Issues. In sis,” Pandis stated. “I am especially the volume’s introduction, Editor Dan Georgakas writes of grateful to AHI President Nick Lar- the pressing foreign policy issues facing the United States, igakis, my fellow staffers, and AHI’s Greece, and Cyprus and their neighbors in the Eastern Board of Directors for their confi- Mediterranean and the Balkans. Emily Pandis dence in me. During my time here, I have realized the importance of The contemporary dynamics in Cyprus and Greece AHI’s mission and the work that the organization does. I look regarding Turkey are addressed in this volume in essays forward to contributing to advancing the Institute’s mission by Van Coufoudakis and Amb. Patrick Theros. A broader in my new position.” historical context is offered in book reviews by Alexander Kitroeff and Constantine P. Danopoulos. The related issue AHI INTERNSHIP PROGRAM of refugees is explored by Corinne Candilis and Adam Hadjipateras AHI also welcomed Vasili Ioannidis and Anthony Katsaounis for their remote internships during the summer The social challenges regarding Greek America’s millennials of 2020. Vasili is pursuing an BA in Economics with a minor and generation X are the focus of essays by Eleni Sakellis, in Modern Greek Language and Culture at the University Kristina Koinoglou, and Yiorgos Anagnostou. A history of of Michigan and Anthony is pursuing a BA in Business and international efforts to return the Parthenon Marbles to Economics at Ohio State University. Greece is examined by George Vardas. Yiorgos Chouliaras, Dean Kostos, and Karen Melander-Magoon demonstrate the many dimensions political poetry can take by writing of lost images, Yannis Ritsos, and the mountain Kurds. It is available gratis at the AHIF Policy Journal. AHIF Study Abroad Alumna’s Article Published by CBS News Internship Program Floriana Boardman, a participant on the 2018 AHI Anthony Katsaounis Vasili Ioannidis Foundation Foreign Policy Study Abroad program, interned at 60 Minutes with CBS News in New York City. The CBS News Internship Program published Floriana’s “I would like to express my gratitude to AHI for adapting article, “The Greek Orthodox Church of America responds to these unprecedented circumstances to allow me to gain meaningful experiences during my internship,” Vasili to Covid-19” on the program’s Facebook page. The said. “The internship was instrumental in furthering my program tasked its interns with writing an article about knowledge of the Eastern Mediterranean region and its role how COVID-19 is affecting an aspect of their lives during in U.S. foreign policy. I am certain the skills and knowledge this time of uncertainty. that I acquired during my time at AHI will have a positive impact on my future, both professionally and academically.” “Even though it was remote, the opportunity to be a AHIF College summer intern at the American Hellenic Institute brought Student Foreign me closer than I had ever been to real policy experts and government officials,” Anthony said. “This experience has Policy Trip: opened my eyes to the great opportunities available for business and cultural exchange between the United States, DC, Greece & Greece, and Cyprus.” Cyprus AHI’s internship program is designed for college students who are interested in learning more about U.S.-Greece- www.ahiworld.org/students/policy-trip Cyprus relations and how foreign policy is formulated in Washington, D.C., and who wish to gain experience in government affairs and foreign policy. Students work on various assignments, comprised of research projects, at- tend think tanks events and assisting with an assortment of educational events sponsored by AHI. For more information about the program and to apply for the fall semester visit https://www.ahiworld.org/internships 2020 ANNUAL REPORT 38 FOREIGN POLICY TRIP ALUMNI PRESENTATIONS

AHIF held a three-day series of virtual presentations for alumni of the AHI Foundation (AHIF) College Student Foreign Policy Trip, June 30 to July 2, in lieu of its 12th annual trip which was cancelled due to COVID-19. Twenty-four alumni of the program, dating back to 2010, participated. Through Zoom, AHI offered presentations from former and current officials representing the United States, Greek, and Cypriot governments. His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and AHI representatives also presented.

Nikos Christodoulides, Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Republic of Cyprus

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America Kostas Vlasis, Deputy Minister, Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs

General Konstatinos Floros, Chief, Hellenic Photis Photiou, Commissioner to the Rear Admiral Fragiskos Leloudas HN, National Defense General Staff Presidency, Humanitarian Affairs and (Branch Director of HNDGS) Overseas Cypriots

“We sincerely thank Archbishop Elpidophoros, and all presenters, especially those from overseas, who took their valuable time and resources to brief our alumni and engage in a substantive discussion with them. I am confident our alumni will utilize the information and continue to educate and advocate their peers, colleagues, and public officials.”

— AHI President Nick Larigakis, July 2, 2020 Lt. Gen. Demokritos Zervakis, Chief, National Guard of Cyprus

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 39 We Mourn the Loss of . . .

The American Hellenic Institute issued a statement on the passing of former U.S. Senator Paul S. Sarbanes of Maryland. “The American Hellenic Institute deeply mourns the passing of former U.S. Senator Paul S. Sarbanes,” President Larigakis said. “Senator Sarbanes exemplified Hellenic ideals to the fullest extent. He excelled as a public servant, valued the importance of education, culture, and the arts, and was a true champion of the Rule of Law. These were values instilled in him as the son of Greek immigrants. “Without Senator Sarbanes’ strong advocacy, and the respect he garnered U.S. Senator during his service and a leader in Congress, the community’s effort to impose Paul S. Sarbanes an arms embargo on Turkey, following Turkey’s illegal invasion and occupation of the Republic of Cyprus in 1974, would not have been a success. Together with the late founder of AHI, Eugene T. Rossides, we were proud to work with then-Congressman Paul Sarbanes on this most substantial policy achievement. We will forever be grateful for his staunch and unwavering support for the Greek American community’s policy issues, especially during his tenure serving on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “Senator Sarbanes will always be remembered fondly by the American Hellenic Institute and its members for his devotion to AHI, the Rule of Law, and to Hellenism for which we are deeply grateful and from which we all benefited. We were honored to present him with the Hellenic Heritage National Public Service Award in 1992. He also keynoted and addressed several AHI forums, conferences, and events and contributed to AHI’s one-hour documentary, ‘Cyprus Still Divided: A U.S. Foreign Policy Failure.’ “Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with Congressman John Sarbanes, who carries Senator Sarbanes’ legacy, and the entire Sarbanes family. May his memory be eternal.”

In 2020, AHI also mourned the passing of Katerina Papathanassiou, co- founder of the AHI-Athens chapter and a long-time AHI supporter, who died July 21, 2020. Katerina served as an active board member of the AHI-Athens chapter, attending AHI-Athens events in the United States. In a statement, President Larigakis, said, “On behalf of the entire AHI family, I was saddened to learn of Katerina’s passing. She will always be remembered as a very proud Greek American who had very deep love for her two countries, Greece and the United States. And for many years she was an invaluable asset in our cause of promoting a strong U.S.-Greece relationship. Her commitment and passion for this cause is only surpassed by her elegant grace and proper Katerina etiquette that she always embraced. She will be missed by all of us, but we Papathanassiou take solace in the fact that she will be once again reunited with her one and only true love, General Pericles Papathanassiou. May Her Memory Be Eternal.”

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 40 INDEX AHI sent letters to government officials and issued several public statements presenting positions on current events and policy decisions important to the organization’s membership. Moreover, action alerts notified members to respond to these issues. Letters • January 2: AHI wrote to President Donald J. Trump to thank him for inviting Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to the White House for a visit on January 7. AHI made the case the meeting presented an opportunity for President Trump to commit to ensuring Greece’s security and economic development amid Turkey’s provocations. • January 7: AHI sent a letter to the State Department’s Cultural Property Advisory Committee chaired by Dr. Jeremy Sabloff, contending that Turkey has enabled or tolerated the destruction of cultural property, citing numerous examples, including in Turkish-occupied Cyprus. • January 31: AHI sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo applauding him for conveying the United States’ commitment to Greece’s democracy, security, and prosperity on two occasions on January 8 and 21. AHI also asserted that Greece remained under siege from Turkey’s egregious provocations and “gunboat diplomacy” in the Eastern Mediterranean. • March 24: AHI wrote to Secretary Pompeo out of concern the international community will lose its focus on “Turkey’s propensity to cause instability in the region” amid the coronavirus pandemic. AHI specifically urged the U.S. government to be engaged on the Greece-Turkey border crisis. • March 25: AHI sent a letter to President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou to congratulate her ascendancy to the presidency and to laud President Sakellaropoulou’s role in the Greek government’s effective and professional response to the coronavirus outbreak. • April 22: AHI wrote to Secretary Pompeo requesting him to utilize the authority delegated to him by President Donald Trump under two newly enacted laws to waive the limitations placed on the transfer of arms to the Republic of Cyprus, and further, to remove the Republic of Cyprus altogether from the list of countries to which arms sales are prohibited under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). • June 25: AHI wrote to Secretary Pompeo to convey grave concern about Turkey’s demonstrated willingness to cause instability in the Eastern Mediterranean and called on the United States to have a more active presence there to safeguard U.S. interests and to avoid a potential crisis. • July 15: AHI sent a letter to President Trump to convey outrage with President Erdogan’s formal action that changed Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque and extreme disappointment that President Trump did not address the matter with President Erdogan during a July 14 phone call. • September 18: AHI wrote to Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark Esper to raise the concern that funding that has been authorized and appropriated by Congress for two military construction projects at Souda Bay, Crete, has yet to be provided. • September 24: AHI sent a letter to Secretary Pompeo ahead of his visit to Greece, that included a visit to Souda Bay, Crete, highlighting Greece’s vital role in the projection of U.S. strategic interests, its contributions to defense and security cooperation, and its strong, unwavering support for NATO. AHI also drew attention to Turkey’s threats to peace and stability in the region. • October 12: AHI expressed its outrage about Turkey’s illegal reopening of the beach in Varosha in a letter the Institute sent to Secretary Pompeo. • October 30: AHI, in a joint letter with Greek and Cypriot organizations to President Trump, encouraged him to take steps to hold President Erdogan and the Turkish government accountable for their actions in the region. • November 11: AHI wrote to Secretary Pompeo ahead of his visit to Turkey to meet exclusively with His-All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I to discuss religious freedom to thank Secretary Pompeo for the meeting and to provide him with the Institute’s policy positions on religious freedom in Turkey. • December 9: AHI wrote to President-elect Joseph Biden, Jr., to congratulate him on his election as President of the United States.

41 Statements & Announcements • January 2: AHI joined with AHEPA, B’nai B’rith International, and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations to welcome an agreement between Greece, Israel, and Cyprus to proceed with the EastMed pipeline. The groups also stated they were pleased a seventh trilateral summit will be held in Athens and that high- level bilateral meetings will occur.

• February 3: AHI issued a statement about a January 27 phone call between President Trump and President Erdogan that “highlighted the importance of Turkey and Greece resolving their disagreements in the eastern Mediterranean” to place the readout’s statement in a proper context by clarifying that any “disagreements” that need to be resolved stem from acts by Turkey which are hostile and provocative.

• February 11: AHI condemned a Turkish administrative court’s ruling that denigrated Turkey’s Christian heritage and set an ominous precedent for the world-famous cathedral church of Hagia Sophia and directly affected Istanbul’s Church of St. Savior in Chora.

• February 14: AHI welcomed a February 12 Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on “U.S.-Libya Policy” and commended Ranking Member Robert Menendez for his line of questioning critical of Turkey’s role in Libya.

• March 3: AHI issued a statement on Turkey’s provocative and illegal refugee ploy and urged the Trump Administration the Trump administration to express emphatically to Turkey that it must comply with its treaty obligations, and through diplomatic means, call on the United Nations and Europe to take more active roles in support of Greece to address the surge in migrant flows caused by Turkey that threatened the sovereignty of Greece and all of Europe, as well as international laws and treaties.

• March 9: AHI applauded Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Matthew Palmer’s March 7 clear statement of affirmation made during his visit to Greece that what was transpiring at the Greek- Turkish border was “unacceptable” and that the United States found the situation with the migration flow to be “unsustainable” and needed to change.

• March 25: AHI President Larigakis called for community engagement in annual Greek Independence Day message. • April 3: AHI called out Human Rights Watch and Foreign Affairs for publishing articles that portrayed Greece in an unfair and inaccurate light during the migrant crisis on the Greek-Turkish border.

• April 27: AHI commemorated the 105th anniversary of the start of the Armenian Genocide, a crime against humanity and conveyed its remembrance of the 1.5 million Armenians who were systematically and deliberately annihilated by Ottoman Turkey.

• April 28: AHI condemned Turkey’s violation of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Cyprus with the April 20 arrival of the Turkish drillship, “Yavuz,” and welcomed U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Judith Garber’s response that expressed deep concern about Turkey’s plans to drill in Cyprus’ EEZ and urged Turkey to halt its operations.

• May 5: AHI welcomed the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) 2020 Annual Report on Turkey, especially due to its critique of the Turkish government’s mistreatment of Orthodox Christians. However, AHI contended USCIRF should have recommended Turkey for a “Country of Particular Concern” designation given Turkey’s longstanding history of suppressing religious freedom of minorities, which has been well-documented; the lack of any real progress by Turkey to address and improve its record on religious freedom, and Turkey’s failure to adhere to European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) rulings.

• May 11: AHI commended the U.S. government for strengthening economic relations with Greece with its decision to delist Greece from the Special 301 Report. The U.S. cited the Greek government’s efforts to address improper use of unlicensed software and steps to reduce counterfeit products in Greece for delisting Greece.

• May 25: AHI rebutted and expressed deep concern about statements made by former Supreme Allied Commander Adm. James Stavrides about Turkey at a Turkish Heritage Organization webinar, stating he viewed Turkey through an outdated prism. AHI rebutted Adm. Stavrides’ takes on Turkey’s roles in Libya and the migrant crisis, its purchase of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, and his praise of Turkey’s role to combat terrorism.

42 • June 15: AHI welcomed the U.S. Department of State 2019 Report on International Religious Freedom on Turkey, citing the report’s address of the lack of recognition by Turkey for the “Armenian Apostolic and the Ecumenical Patriarchates and Chief Rabbinate,” rendering them ineligible to hold certain legal and property rights; and for the report’s concern over the continued closure of the Halki Seminary which severely limits the ability to train Greek Orthodox clergy. • June 15: AHI joined with AHEPA, B’nai B’rith International, and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations to welcome reports that Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades planned to visit Israel on separate occasions in June. • June 29: AHI commended Ambassador Sam Brownback, the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, asking the Turkish government to preserve the integrity of the Hagia Sophia in a June 25 tweet. • July 7: AHI commended the Greek American community’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, in particular, the response of the Order of AHEPA. • July 11: AHI strongly condemned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s formal action that changed Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque and stated the Congress and the Secretary of State must vocally and unambiguously express the outrage of the American people at this sordid act. “By this deplorable act, Turkey adds to its pattern of rejecting international norms, international institutions, laws, and treaties. Erdogan has exiled from the political and social life of Turkey any notion of religious tolerance,” AHI stated. • July 14: AHI commended the initiative of United States Senators to keep Turkey in check by requesting the U.S. Department of Defense to remove Turkey from the supply chain of the F-35 Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter. • July 20: AHI issued a statement in remembrance of the somber 46th anniversary of NATO member Turkey’s brutal invasion of the Republic of Cyprus, a member of the European Union. • July 21: AHI issued a statement calling on President Donald Trump to immediately condemn Turkey’s violation of Greece’s continental shelf and to demand that Turkey cease and desist from this aggressive act. AHI also vehemently objected to the State Department’s language in its initial response that Greece’s maritime rights are “disputed waters.” • July 23: On the eve of a Day of Mourning proclaimed by the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, AHI reiterated its strong condemnation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s formal action that changed Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque. • July 28: AHI welcomed a series of statements made by key State Department officials, including U.S. Ambassador to Greece Geoffrey Pyatt, Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Philip Reeker, and Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Frank Fannon, that addressed Turkey’s violation of Greece’s continental shelf and affirmed Greece’s exclusive economic zone rights. • July 28: AHI applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for its passage of two major bipartisan-backed bills— the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act and an FY2021 appropriations spending package—that included amendments that hold Turkey accountable for its provocative and illegal actions and that enhance U.S. relations with Greece and the U.S.’ engagement in the Eastern Mediterranean. • July 28: AHI expressed concern tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan and condemned Azerbaijan’s threat to bomb Armenia’s nuclear power plant. • August 3: AHI joined with AHEPA, B’nai B’rith International, and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations to express that the groups were pleased the much-anticipated Eastern Mediterranean pipeline received its final green light with the approval of the Israeli government. Separately, the groups welcomed, as another positive indicator that bilateral relations between Greece and Israel in defense and security cooperation continues to grow, the Hellenic Parliament’s ratification of a defense agreement with Israel, and a meeting of the heads of Greek and Israeli militaries to discuss deepening ties. • August 19: AHI welcomed high-level engagements made by key State Department officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus to discuss bilateral relations and developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, including increased tensions and energy exploration. “The United States must stand by stable, reliable and trustworthy allies and partners, such as Greece and Cyprus, that work toward peace and stability in the region, which is in the United States’ best interests,” AHI stated.

43 • August 19: AHI applauded several U.S. policymakers for actions taken that aimed to send a strong message to Turkey and hold it accountable for its provocative and illegal actions in the Eastern Mediterranean and the broader region.

• August 20: AHI objected to President Trump’s appeasement and characterization of President Erdogan as a “world- class chess player” during an August 17 interview with “Fox and Friends.”

• September 2: AHI welcomed the United States’ partial lifting of the arms prohibition on Cyprus as a “good first step” and stated the Institute will continue to work with the State Department for Cyprus’s full removal from the International Trade in Arms Regulations (ITAR) list altogether to make Cyprus eligible to acquire U.S. defense articles and defense services without conditions.

• September 14: AHI commended Secretary Pompeo’s September 12 visit to the Republic of Cyprus where he signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides to create a new training center to be called the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-seas, and Port Security (CYCLOPS).

• October 6: AHI commended the historic visit of Secretary Pompeo to Greece and called for next steps to be taken. • October 7: AHI reiterated its express concern regarding escalating tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and Turkey’s role in further exacerbating these tensions, and called for the need for the rule of law to be applied in the Nagorno Karabakh conflict.

• October 27: AHI strongly condemned President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s statement in which he openly proclaimed his desire for a two-state solution for Cyprus during a press conference held October 26. “President Erdogan’s provocative statement is an unacceptable solution,” AHI stated.

• November 11: AHI congratulated Greek Americans who won election to the U.S. Congress. • December 7: AHI mourned the passing of former U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes. • December 9: AHI applauded the passage of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report by the U.S. House of Representatives, December 8, that mandated sanctions on Turkey and authorized funding for military facilities at Souda Bay, Crete.

• December 9: AHI applauded Secretary Pompeo’s public criticisms of Turkey for its provocations during his participation at a virtual NATO ministerial meeting on December 1. Secretary Pompeo stated Turkey’s purchase of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system was a “gift” to Moscow, and he added that Turkey undermines NATO security, causes instability with Greece and Cyprus, and was wrong to send mercenaries from Syria into Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh.

• December 14: AHI welcomed the Trump administration’s announcement to impose sanctions on Turkey for its acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, which is in violation of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). (This statement appears in its entirety in the Media Relations section of this annual report.)

• December 16: AHI decried the European Union’s announced imposition of limited sanctions on Turkish individuals involved in Turkey’s unauthorized energy exploration in the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of Cyprus. More significant sanctions, such as trade tariffs or arms restrictions on Turkey, were not pursued.

• December 22: AHI applauded a December 16 joint statement issued by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engel (D-NY) and Ranking Member Michael McCaul that expressed “deep concern” about Turkey’s actions that endanger the NATO alliance and the broader region.

AHI Capital Reports Issued In 2020, AHI published two of its well-read “Capital Reports” that summarize policy discussions held by think tank organizations in Washington, DC.

• AHI Capital Report: January-June, 2020 • AHI Capital Report: July–August, 2020

44 AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE, INC. Board of Directors Nick Larigakis, President & CEO Kostas Alexakis James H. Lagos Timothy Ananiadis James L. Marketos, Esq. Leon Andris James Pedas Elizabeth Bartz Nico Bamberger Priskos Peter Bota Yanni Sianis Nicholas E. Chimicles, Esq. Paul P. Sogotis Van Coufoudakis, Ph.D. George Tsetsekos, Ph.D. Demitrios Halakos John Vasiliou Aleco Haralambides, Esq.

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AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE FOUNDATION, INC. Board of Directors Leon Andris, President John Alahouzos Nick Larigakis Gus Andy Eleni Rossides Constantine A. Galanis Spiro Spireas, Ph.D. James H. Lagos Kyriakos Y. Tsakopoulos

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