WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush marked the 181st anniversary of Greek independence on Monday by celebrating Greece's contributions to democracy and thanking Athens for its support in the war on terrorism.
*Greece and America have been firm allies in the great struggles for liberty,* Bush said. *As the 21st century dawns, Greece and America are once again standing united; this time in the fight against terrorism.*Meeting with Greek diplomats and leaders in the Old Executive Office Building next to the White House, Bush expressed U.S. appreciation for access to the Souda Bay military base in Crete and Greece's contribution of a naval frigate for patrolling the Arabian Sea.
*America and Greece are strong allies and we're strategic partners,* Bush said. *Our nation has been inspired by Greek ideas and enriched by Greek immigrants.*
The ceremony marked the anniversary of the 1821 revolution in which Greeks regained their freedom and declared independence after 400 years of domination by the Ottoman Empire.
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