Kimberly Guilfoyle, a prominent figure known for her past as a California prosecutor and television personality, has officially begun her tenure as the first U.S. female ambassador to Greece. The formal presentation of her diplomatic credentials to Greek President Constantine Tassoulas marked a significant moment in both her career and U.S.-Greek relations.
Guilfoyle, 56, arrived in Athens following her swearing-in ceremony in Washington D.C. at the end of September. Her appointment comes at a crucial time, as the United States seeks to strengthen its energy partnerships with Greece and expand its influence in the Eastern European energy market.
A key focus of Guilfoyle’s ambassadorship will be facilitating increased liquefied natural gas exports to Eastern Europe, utilizing Greek port facilities as a vital transit point. This initiative is particularly important given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the need to secure alternative energy sources for the region.
The arrival of U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum this week signals the high priority placed on these energy discussions. They are expected to engage in talks with Greek officials regarding a modified pipeline network designed to deliver Western gas to Ukraine.
Guilfoyle and the visiting Secretaries are scheduled to meet with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and participate in meetings organized by the Atlantic Council. These discussions will likely cover a broad range of strategic interests, solidifying the growing partnership between the two nations.
The relationship between Greece and the United States has seen considerable strengthening since 2018. This includes expanded access for U.S. forces to Greek military bases and increased participation by American defense contractors in Greece’s substantial military modernization program.
Guilfoyle’s arrival wasn’t solely focused on diplomatic duties. She embraced Greek culture over the weekend, attending a black-tie reception where she enthusiastically joined in a traditional Greek dance, linking arms and moving with the lively rhythm.
Addressing the attendees at the reception, Guilfoyle expressed her commitment to fostering a strong relationship between the two countries. She pledged to represent the interests of both the United States and Greece with dedication and success.
The credential presentation ceremony on Tuesday saw Guilfoyle joining the new ambassadors from Norway and Canada, Harriet Berg and Sonya Thissen, respectively, as they formally assumed their diplomatic roles.
