In 1996, Representative Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) and former Representative Michael Bilirakis (R-FL), who retired from Congress in 2006, founded the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues. In 2007, Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL) became a co-chair of the Caucus. The purpose of this bi-partisan caucus is to foster and improve relations between the United States and Greece. The Caucus serves to bring a renewed congressional focus on key diplomatic, military, and human rights issues in a critical part of the world. The members of the Caucus introduce legislation, arrange briefings on current events, and disseminate information to interested parties. The topics on which the Caucus focuses include U.S. aid to Greece and Cyprus, the conflict on Cyprus, U.S. relations with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, the status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and developments in the Aegean.

For a complete summary of the activities of the Hellenic Caucus, read the Report on Hellenic Issues (pdf).

Press Releases

Legislation

03/11/09 – H. Res. 236, Urging Turkey to respect the rights and religious freedoms of the Ecumenical Patriarchate

03/09/09 – H. Res. 227, To recognize and appreciate the historical significance and the heroic human endeavor and sacrifice of the people of Crete during World War II and commend the PanCretan Association of America  

03/4/09 – H. Res. 209, Commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Daughters of Penelope, a preeminent international women's association and affiliate organization of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA).  [111th Congress]

05/24/07 - H.R. 2526, which deems Greece to be designated as a visa waiver country under the Immigration and Nationality Act. [110th Congress]

05/15/07 - H. Res. 407 - Expressing the strong support of the House of Representatives for the positive actions by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus aimed at opening additional crossing points along the cease-fire line, thereby contributing to efforts for the reunification of the island. [110th Congress]

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Documents/Reports

05/06/09 - Report on Hellenic Issues

05/04/09 - Hellenic Caucus Members in the 111th Congress

03/17/09 – Letter to Secretaries Clinton and Napolitano Urging Them to Them to Advance Greece’s Application to Join the VWP  

03/16/09 – Letter to President Obama Urging Him to Visit Ecumenical Patriarch During His Visit to Turkey

02/24/09 – Letter to President Obama urging him to host a White House celebration in honor of Greek Independence Day

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