In an atmosphere of high anticipation and heightened security, the 89th Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) officially opens today, Saturday, September 6, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis set to deliver his keynote address at 7:30 p.m. at the “Ioannis Vellidis” Conference Center.
All eyes are on a relief package totaling €1.7 billion, which is expected to function as both a buffer against political wear and a tool to consolidate support — particularly among the middle class, families with children, and uniformed personnel.
What’s in the Package – Investing in Social Cohesion
The announced measures include:
- Increased tax-free thresholds for families with 1 to 3 children
- New pay raises for police and armed forces starting in 2026, in addition to the already implemented Special Work Conditions Allowance
- Tax cuts on rental income and a reduction in overall income tax rates
- 30% reduction in imputed income criteria (“tekmiria”) from 2026, with a plan for their gradual abolition
- Reforms for the self-employed via changes to the imputed taxation system
The message is clear: the government is trying to re-engage the social groups that were crucial to the New Democracy party’s electoral success in 2023 — at a time when inflation, living costs, and tax fatigue have eroded public confidence.
Thessaloniki on Lockdown – Police Clampdown and Major Disruptions
Mitsotakis’ visit has triggered unprecedented security measures in Thessaloniki. Over 3,000 police officers, drones, and two water cannons are on alert, while road closures and transport disruptions have paralyzed the city center since midday.
By police order, six metro stations — Efklídis, Papafí, University, Fountain, Agia Sophia, and Venizelou — were closed from 3:00 p.m., with trains passing through without stopping.
OpenAI, AI in Schools, and Tech Modernization
On the sidelines of the TIF, the Prime Minister also presented a new government partnership with OpenAI, launching the “AI in Schools” initiative. This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to project a reformist image and align with the digital transformation of education.
The Political Symbolism of TIF – A Campaign Tone Without Elections?
The 89th TIF unfolds in a highly politicized environment, where attention is not only on the PM’s announcements but also on the public backlash — expressed through rallies and demonstrations planned for the weekend.
Even though there is no immediate electoral deadline, many analysts view this year’s TIF as a reset moment for the government, with Mitsotakis attempting to reshape the political narrative around economic recovery, family support, and digital modernization.
All Eyes on Sunday’s Press Conference – Clarifying the Government’s Intentions
At 12:00 noon on Sunday, the Prime Minister will hold the traditional TIF press conference, where he is expected to face tough questions on the economy, Greek-Turkish relations, public sector reform, and the future of his cabinet.
Mitsotakis’ presence at TIF is not just a ceremonial appearance. It is a political test, unfolding against the backdrop of growing expectations, social tension, and political uncertainty.
Source: pagenews.gr