Greece expressed its concern to U.S. regarding increase of Turkey’s military potential.

In the course of the talks with Pentagon top officials, Greek Deputy Defense Minister Panos Beglitis stressed that the government is looking forward to cooperation with Turkey but is concerned over rising power of its eastern neighbor. In an interview with the Associated Press, Beglitis said he doubts whether American friends realize Greece’s concern. He also stated that the country is working on strengthening ties with Israel.