Greece is entering a new phase of strategic empowerment, as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis unveiled key developments this week that extend from defense and foreign affairs to labor policy, digital transformation, education, and investment oversight.
Geopolitical Front: AOZ Talks with Libya Underway
A milestone move in Greece’s foreign policy was the launch of official talks with Libya for the delimitation of their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) — a move that could reshape energy and maritime dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean.
“The path to regional stability passes through agreements between genuine neighboring countries, based on international law — not through arbitrary and unfounded memoranda,” Mitsotakis stated, in a veiled reference to the controversial Turkey-Libya maritime accord of 2019.
Defense Upgrade: 4th Belharra Frigate Joins the Fleet
On the defense front, Mitsotakis confirmed that Greece will proceed with the purchase of a fourth state-of-the-art Belharra frigate, named Themistocles, further enhancing the Hellenic Navy’s operational capacity.
“Defense is not a luxury — it is a pillar of prosperity,” the Prime Minister emphasized, rebutting opposition criticism of defense spending. “Without security, there can be no sustainable growth or social cohesion.”
The Themistocles will join the Kimon (expected by end-2025), Nearchos, and Formion, offering a major boost to Greece’s naval deterrent power amidst regional uncertainties.
Labor & Social Insurance: Early Signs of Success
Labor reforms are also delivering measurable results. The abolition of extra insurance contributions on overtime, night shifts, and public holiday work has led to:
- 48% increase in declared overtime pay
- 34% increase in social contributions
- 31% rise in night and holiday pay
- 43% rise in contributions from those segments
These figures suggest improved labor law compliance and higher take-home pay, proving that targeted reforms can produce win-win outcomes for workers and employers alike.
Digital State: EFKA’s Transformation for Citizens
A major leap in public administration is the rollout of the myEFKA mobile app and digital dashboard, offering insured citizens a comprehensive overview of their insurance history, real-time updates on applications, and issuance of official documents — all via smartphone.
“Every new tool added to the digital state removes a layer of frustration from daily life,” Mitsotakis noted.
Health Services: Reaching the Vulnerable First
In health care, the government celebrates the success of its home delivery of high-cost medications program by EOPYY, with over 83,000 deliveries already made since June, aiding chronically ill and mobility-impaired patients.
Meanwhile, the Mobile Health Units (KOMY) are extending house-call medical services to remote villages, including free preventive exams and telemedicine support in Thrace and the Evros border region.
“The national health system no longer waits for the citizen to come. It goes to the citizen — wherever they live.”
Education: Fast-Tracked Transfers & Vocational Empowerment
For the first time, university student transfers will be completed by early October, enabling families to plan ahead and students to integrate smoothly.
Vocational education is also being transformed into a credible path to success: nearly 14,000 paid apprenticeships are available this year, most in the private sector, offering 95% of the legal minimum wage, full insurance, and career certification at Level 5.
Another landmark initiative is the opening of the first Vocational High School within a prison — at Larissa Correctional Facility — offering inmates recognized diplomas and professional skills to support social reintegration.
Urban Mobility & Road Safety: Priorities in Motion
Athens launched its 24-hour public transport service, with over 55,000 ticket validations on the first weekend. Metro and tram services were supported by over 280 workers and bolstered police presence for passenger safety.
At the same time, a new digital platform (report.oasa.gr) allows commuters to file complaints on delays, cleanliness, or technical issues — receiving replies within days.
Greece’s updated Highway Code also brings stricter penalties for repeat offenders, including license suspensions and, in serious cases, criminal prosecution. Notably, 2,600 citations for helmet violations were issued in a single week.
“Road fatalities are not acceptable collateral damage. Responsible driving saves lives,” Mitsotakis stressed.
Investment Oversight: Public Money Under the Microscope
Turning to economic governance, a new strict framework for auditing subsidized investment projects has been adopted.
- Companies benefiting from state aid must submit annual reports
- Randomized audits on 10–20% of subsidized firms will assess legal and financial compliance
- Severe penalties will apply in case of fraud or non-compliance, including recovery of grants
“We safeguard public funds. Taxpayer money must serve the real economy, not be lost to misuse,” the Prime Minister stated.
Strategic Security, Smart Governance
As Greece prepares for PM Mitsotakis’ participation at the UN General Assembly in New York, the country showcases a comprehensive domestic agenda that combines geopolitical assertiveness with social care, digital reform, and economic discipline.
The big question is whether this multidimensional strategy will endure the test of political challenges — both at home and abroad. But for now, the momentum is evident.
Source: pagenews.gr