US President Donald Trump marked Greek Independence Day with an official proclamation emphasizing the enduring historical and ideological ties between the United States and Greece, while praising the role of the Greek-American community and reaffirming the two nations’ shared commitment to democratic values.

In his proclamation, Trump described Greece as the birthplace of self-government and Western civilization, noting that “the miracle of self-government first dawned in Greece” long before the United States was founded. He credited the spirit of freedom developed in ancient Greece with sustaining the Greek people through centuries of foreign rule, ultimately culminating in the War of Independence that began on March 25, 1821.

“With rugged bravery, pride in their past and confidence in their future, they launched a revolution on March 25, 1821, embarking on a noble crusade that shattered the chains of authoritarian rule that had bound them for centuries. For almost a decade, their freedom was successfully forged in the fiery heat of conflict and sacrifice, sustained by their faith in the timeless truth that every nation is endowed with the right to self-determination” the proclamation stated.

Drawing parallels between the two countries, Trump underlined that both Greece and the United States were founded on the ideals of liberty, democracy and sovereignty. He noted that the histories of both nations demonstrate the willingness of oppressed peoples to endure hardship in pursuit of just governance and freedom. “Like Greece, the United States was born in the tradition of republican self-rule and is sustained by citizens who believe that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are our sacred birthright. The histories of our two nations testify that an oppressed people will endure any trial to establish a truly just government, defend their inheritance at all costs, and secure the blessings of liberty for themselves and their children.”

The US president also highlighted the contribution of the Greek-American community, describing it as a vital part of American society. According to the proclamation, Greek Americans continue to enrich the country through their entrepreneurship, faith and commitment to the values that have shaped the United States since its founding in 1776. “Today, the Greek American community enriches the story of our Nation through their enterprise, faith in God, and unyielding passion for the principles that have defined the American way of life since 1776.”

Trump further emphasized Greece’s role as a close ally, stating that it “stands shoulder to shoulder with the United States” in defending shared Western ideals and promoting peace globally. As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its independence, he added, Americans draw inspiration from the example of the Greek people, who “refused to surrender their sovereignty and preserved the flame of self-government.”

The proclamation also stressed the symbolic connection between Athens and Philadelphia, noting that the democratic ideals first developed in ancient Greece helped inspire America’s Founding Fathers. “On this 205th Greek Independence Day, we celebrate that enduring spirit, which first stirred in Athens and inspired our Founding Fathers in Philadelphia, whose genius and devotion to the cause of human freedom will never cease to inspire people on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Concluding the message, Trump officially proclaimed March 25, 2026, as “Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy” calling on Americans to mark the occasion with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

The statement coincides with the 205th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence and comes as both countries continue to emphasize their strategic partnership and shared democratic heritage.

Source: Ekathimerini.com