Introduction to Economic Growth
The Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, recently addressed the General Assembly of SEV, emphasizing the importance of economic growth and its link to individual prosperity. He reflected on his first speech as the leader of the opposition ten years ago, where he committed to five key points that have guided his path as Prime Minister.
Achievements in Economic Growth
Mr. Mitsotakis highlighted several achievements, including the rise in investments, reduction of unemployment to 8% with a further downward trend, digital transformation of the public sector, reduction of 83 taxes, and the clearing of bad loans from banks. He also mentioned the improvement of the business environment, the sharp decline in public debt, and the lower interest rates on Greek bonds. The Prime Minister noted that Greece, once considered a "pariah" in 2015, now borrows at lower rates than powerful European economies.
Importance of Political Stability
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of political stability, citing government crises across Europe and the resurgence of populism. He emphasized that political stability is essential for economic growth and investments, and that there is no economic outlook without it. Mr. Mitsotakis also mentioned that the characteristics of political stability, which Greece has achieved through many trials, are often unfairly questioned.
Addressing the Issue of High Energy Costs
The Prime Minister addressed the major issue of high energy costs, which impact businesses, especially domestic industry. He stated that the solution must boost competitiveness, within fiscal frameworks, support energy-intensive industry, and have a broader network of beneficiaries.
The Role of Strong Governments
Mr. Mitsotakis reiterated that stability is the foundation for every further prospect, recalling the consequences of simplistic solutions and promises without substance. He emphasized that only strong governments can guarantee the implementation of necessary changes to keep the economy on a path of prosperity, without succumbing to populism and away from any political experimentation.
A Call to Action
The Prime Minister called on citizens to work together to achieve a common goal: to make Greece a country where one would want to live, study, work, invest, and create. He stressed that this cannot be achieved by any government alone and that it requires guided truth, balanced growth, and responsible patriotism.
A Message to Greek Industrialists
Mr. Mitsotakis invited Greek industrialists to renew their informal agreement, aiming at collective progress. He encouraged them to invest their profits in the country, adopt practices that respect the consumer, and integrate new technologies into their operations.
International Recognition
The Governor of the Bundesbank, Jens Nagel, praised Greece’s economic transformation over the last decade, highlighting the country’s remarkable resilience and determination to continue achieving primary surpluses to reduce its debt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Prime Minister’s speech emphasized the importance of economic growth, political stability, and strong governments in achieving prosperity. He called on citizens and Greek industrialists to work together to make Greece a desirable country to live, study, work, and invest. The international recognition of Greece’s economic transformation is a testament to the country’s progress and determination to continue on a path of growth and development.
