Mitsotakis: 84 Years After October 28, 1940, Greece is a Pillar of Stability with Strong Armed Forces

“Eighty-four years later, our country is a pillar of stability in a prolonged troubled neighbourhood, a reliable factor for peace, supported by strong Armed Forces that ensure our deterrent power. A prerequisite for this responsible patriotism—healthy patriotism—is dynamic and sustainable economic growth. We need an economy that guarantees a prosperous, safer, and fairer Greece, capable of facing every challenge and emerging from every crisis stronger. We are a country that learns from the past, cares for the present, and confidently looks to the future.”

Mitsotakis then addressed the economy, discussing the recently presented plan for its productive transformation to strengthen investment and industry. “The investment roadmap for the next three years,” he explained, “focuses not only on tourism but also on manufacturing, agri-food, and entrepreneurship. Contrary to the perception that Greece ‘does not produce even a pin,’ it is important to note that manufacturing and industry have been growing dynamically in recent years, increasing their share of GDP by 2 percentage points.”

He mentioned “Evros After,” a €2.83 billion plan aimed at enhancing the region’s economic and security landscape. This plan includes infrastructure and reconstruction initiatives, such as settlement incentives and increased bonuses for residents. He also outlined the national strategy for the development prospects of islands like Zakynthos, emphasizing interventions in environmental management and the protection of landmarks like the “Shipwreck.”

Mitsotakis further discussed the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable social groups, particularly people with disabilities, focusing on their professional integration and equality. He announced new recruitments through ASEP exclusively for individuals with disabilities and outlined new initiatives for their rights and welfare in Greece.

On inflation, he stated, “We are continuing our efforts to alleviate the burden of high prices on households. The Union of Supermarkets of Greece, at the invitation of the Ministry of Development, is implementing a 6% to 15% reduction in the prices of initially 123 essential consumer products, with plans to reach 600 items gradually. The organized retail sector has responded positively to our initiative, which I welcome. I hope many businesses will follow suit with more products.”

In conclusion, he addressed a series of measures to combat juvenile violence, emphasizing the need for psychosocial support for children. “According to data from the Ministry of Citizen Protection, juvenile arrests reached 10,600 by the end of September this year, compared to 7,400 during the same period last year. What is most concerning is that children are now operating in gangs, which was not the case in the past, and they no longer hesitate to use knives and even firearms,” he noted.

“The dependence of children and adolescents on mobile phones, along with the proven mental burden it carries, is one of the negative consequences of digital technology and artificial intelligence algorithms,” he stressed.