Mitsotakis Pushes for Zero Tariffs in EU-US Trade Deal,Touts Progress on Jobs,Economy,National Infrastructure

In his final weekly briefing before the summer break, the Greek Prime Minister highlights labor market reforms, a major stock exchange acquisition, defense investments, and regional development — “Change is underway, for the benefit of the many.”

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis concluded his final weekly address before the August break by laying out a sweeping summary of government actions across trade, labor, infrastructure, and defense.

From advocating zero tariffs in transatlantic trade, to celebrating the acquisition of the Athens Stock Exchange by a major European market operator, Mitsotakis painted a picture of a country evolving into a more dynamic and resilient economy.

Transatlantic Trade: “Tariffs hurt both sides”

Addressing the ongoing EU-US negotiations on trade tariffs, the Prime Minister said Greece will continue to advocate zero tariffs on both European and American products.

“Tariffs damage both economies and ultimately the wallets of consumers. We hope to reach a new level of understanding with our American allies sooner rather than later,” he noted.

Stock Market Acquisition: “A vote of confidence in Greece”

Mitsotakis confirmed a landmark proposal for the acquisition of the Athens Stock Exchange by Europe’s largest financial market group. He described it as:

• A move that strengthens the international visibility of Greece’s capital market
• A strategic endorsement of Greece’s economic recovery since 2019
• A step that will attract more investors and increase market competitiveness

Labor Reforms: Digital tracking and rising wages

Placing special emphasis on workers, Mitsotakis underscored the impact of the digital labor card, now covering nearly 2 million employees. The system:

• Has led to a massive surge in reported overtime, exceeding 1,000% in tourism
• Increased declared wages in sectors like hospitality and retail
• Helped the government recover €1.7 billion in previously undeclared revenues

“For the first time in decades, something is changing in the labor market — in favor of the many,” Mitsotakis said.

National Infrastructure: Patras-Pyrgos Highway Completed

He announced the completion of the long-awaited Patras–Pyrgos highway, a once notoriously dangerous road now transformed into a modern motorway.

“It’s more than infrastructure — it’s a tribute to the dozens of lives lost over the years on this treacherous route,” he emphasized.

Evros Region: Combating depopulation with relocation incentives

The Prime Minister turned attention to Northern Evros, offering up to €10,000 in relocation grants, plus €1,000 per child, to reverse the region’s declining population. Complementary policies include:

• Expansion of university programs
• New weekly ferry routes linking Evros to Piraeus via Chios and Lesvos
• Tax and logistical incentives for local businesses

Families and Disability Support: Expanded childcare and home accessibility

The government will inject an additional €755 million into its early childcare and afterschool programs between 2025 and 2027, targeting:

• Infants in daycare
• School-aged children and teenagers in creative learning centers (K.D.A.P.)
• Children and adults with disabilities

In parallel, demand for the “Home Accessibility” program for people with disabilities led the government to raise the budget by €10 million, adding 1,000 new beneficiaries.

Defense: Greece targets €1.2 billion from new EU SAFE fund

Greece submitted a plan to participate in the EU’s SAFE program, aiming to secure €1.2 billion for its national defense strategy. The country’s military procurement budget will rise:

• From €28.8 billion to €30 billion (2025–2036)
• With annual equipment acquisitions exceeding €2.6 billion by 2028

“Defense is not a technical issue. It’s a national priority and a condition for social stability and prosperity,”Mitsotakis stated.

Healthcare: Saving lives and streamlining ER operations

The Prime Minister applauded the swift coordination that saved a 15-year-old boy in a coma thanks to organ transplant logistics, and hailed the digital wristband tracking system in hospital emergency rooms. Results include:

• 58% reduction in average waiting times
• Faster cross-specialty assessments (down to under 4 hours per patient)

Message to the Nation: “August is summer’s Sunday”

In a warm closing note, Mitsotakis expressed gratitude to all workers on duty during the summer season, wishing citizens a restful August:“We all need a break to recharge. My thoughts go to those who work so others can rest. Let’s show them kindness.”

Source: pagenews.gr