Mitsotakis: 420 Development Projects for Western Greece to Be Unveiled in the Fall

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that 420 development interventions for Western Greece will be officially presented this fall, as part of a wider strategy to boost infrastructure, tourism, energy, and production in the region.

In an interview with the regional newspaper “Peloponnisos”, the Prime Minister emphasized that the long-awaited completion of the Patras–Pyrgos motorway, scheduled for November 30, is a “turning point” for the area, marking the beginning of a new era of development for the prefectures of Achaia, Ilia, and Aetolia-Acarnania.

“Our goal is a united Greece that builds its future with confidence and fairness,” Mitsotakis stated.

Strategic Investments and Infrastructure Projects

The development plan includes:

• Modernization of Araxos Airport, to be integrated into the national network of 21 regional airports.
• Privatization of cruise operations in the ports of Patras and Katakolo.
• Finalization of the marina zoning and master plan for the Port of Patras.
• Tourism port upgrades across Western Greece.

Mitsotakis noted that these projects are not random but form part of a cohesive regional strategy, aimed at boosting connectivity, logistics, manufacturing, and local business growth.

Fighting Regional Inequality with “Double Convergence”

Addressing long-standing regional disparities highlighted by institutions like the Bank of Greece and IOBE, the Prime Minister explained the government’s “double convergence” strategy:

• Narrowing the gap between Greek regions and the EU average
• Reducing inter-regional inequalities within Greece

The Local Development Plans, including the 420 projects, were shaped through public consultation with local authorities, chambers of commerce, universities, and civil society.

“Western Greece is not inferior—just different. And its unique strengths must be fully utilized,” he said.

Employment and Income Indicators Show Progress

Mitsotakis reported that unemployment in Western Greece has dropped from 26.6% in 2019 to 10% in 2025, a reduction of 15.6 percentage points, twice the national average.

Other key indicators:

• Per capita income rose by over 15% between 2019 and 2022.
• Risk of poverty and social exclusion has decreased, though still remains a concern.

“We are not complacent. We are continuing our efforts to lift all citizens,” the Prime Minister added.

Addressing Inflation and Cost of Living

Mitsotakis acknowledged that inflation and high prices—especially in basic goods, rent, and energy—remain a major challenge:

“The fight against rising costs has not ended—it’s intensifying.”

Key measures:

• Ongoing market inspections and price controls in supermarkets
• Energy subsidies
• Housing support schemes
• Minimum wage increase from €650 to €880, with a target of €950 by 2027
• Expected average wage of over €1,500 in the same period

Looking Ahead to the Thessaloniki International Fair

The Prime Minister concluded by saying that more details on government plans, including new financial relief measures, will be announced at the Thessaloniki International Fair in September:“Citizens will only need to wait a few more weeks to hear the full scope of interventions.”

Source: pagenews.gr