[Dimitris Papamitsos/Prime Ministers’ Press Office]
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking at the Greek Investment Conference in London, emphasized Greece’s progress but noted it lags behind countries like Ireland and Portugal due to historical political challenges.
He outlined a vision for Greece to become a modern European leader in areas where it has a natural advantage, citing successful projects like the Thessaloniki metro as symbols of future progress.
Mitsotakis stressed the need for fiscal stability, productive investments and technological advancements, particularly in AI, while ensuring public engagement and shared benefits from growth. He acknowledged inflation’s impact on wages and tax relief but expressed optimism for the coming years.
Mitsotakis highlighted Greece’s ambition to be one of Europe’s seven “AI factories.” The country aims to attract AI scientists, foster startups and benefit from centralized data management for AI applications in healthcare and climate. Greece is developing its first supercomputer and positioning itself as a hub for data centers powered by renewable energy, said the prime minister.
On environmental policy, Greece has reduced emissions by 45% since 2005 and produces over half its electricity from renewable sources. Mitsotakis emphasized balancing green initiatives with industrial competitiveness, urging the EU to lower energy costs for businesses and consumers.
Mitsotakis advocated for stricter action against human trafficking networks and a controlled approach to legal migration. He also stressed Greece’s role as a stabilizing force in a turbulent region, pointing to its geopolitical partnerships, including strong ties with the US.
The prime minister celebrated 2024 as a record-breaking year for tourism, reinforcing optimism about Greece’s economic trajectory.