By KUNA,
Washington : US President Barack Obama emphasized here late Tuesday the efforts exerted by Greece to “extend” security and stability.
In remarks he gave on Greek Independence Day, Obama said “let me acknowledge Greece’s efforts to extend the security and stability in our time, toward a just and final settlement in Cyprus, fully integrating the Balkans into Europe.” He also acknowledged the visiting Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou’s “personal work to improve relations with Turkey,” and thanked him for his leadership.
“And let me commend Greece, our close NATO ally, for standing up for the security and opportunity of people around the world, from the Balkans to Afghanistan, where Greek service members are helping to give people who have known too much war the chance to live in peace and security,” he remarked.
“This solidarity continues today, whether it’s the close counterterrorism efforts between our governments or the deep partnerships between our people.” Obama affirmed that Greece’s participation in the Visa Waiver Program will “strengthen security in both our countries … It will now be easier for our Greek friends to visit the United States.” US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano announced earlier in the day the designation of Greece as a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) which would strengthen “passenger information sharing and ensuring strict security standards while streamlining travel for Greek citizens visiting the United States.”