press releases
Ambassador Ries' Familiarization Trip to Thessaly
Athens (June 27, 2005) -- Ambassador Charles P. Ries, on his first trip to Larissa and Thessaly, paid calls today, June 27, on government and military officials. Upon arrival in Larissa, the Ambassador met with Mr. Fotios Goupas, Secretary General of Thessaly,
Mr. Loukas Katsaros, Regional Prefect, and with Mayor Kostas Tzanakoulis. Ambassador Ries also had an opportunity to witness the agricultural wealth of Thessaly and commented, "Greece's agricultural heartland, and the modern farming methods I have seen here, are impressive. There are good prospects for fruitful collaboration with American seed and technology companies as Greece improves its international competitiveness in the food sector."
The Ambassador also visited the Hellenic Tactical Air Force, receiving a briefing on the HTAF's organization and mission from Commander Lt. General Ioannis Yiagos. Ambassador Ries viewed the F-16's used by the 110 Combat Wing's 346th Squadron, and expressed his appreciation of the airplanes "which are combat-tested and cost-effective aircraft widely used in NATO with parts and components produced by aerospace companies in Greece, the United States, and other partners around the world.”
At a lunch hosted by Lt. General Yiagos in the Ambassador's honor, the Ambassador was able to meet with additional military and civilian officials, as well as with representatives of Greek-American organizations. After lunch, the Ambassador visited the international school in Tirnavos and the NATO Combined Air Operations Center 7. He expressed appreciation for Greek contributions to NATO, particularly the recent announcement that Hellenic Air Force C-130s will participate in the Alliance’s mission to support the African Union’s efforts in Darfur.
Before stepping on the plane to return to Athens, the Ambassador commented that "Americans in Larissa and Thessaly appear to love living here, and feel quite at home." Ambassador Ries also mentioned his eagerness to visit other regions of Greece.