Samaras and Tsipras: Distancing and Future Focus
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis chose not to comment on criticisms from Antonis Samaras, respecting his history and recent bereavement. Similarly, he will not read Alexis Tsipras’ upcoming book Ithaca, only referring to its excerpts.
“The approach of Tsipras is to rewrite events already recorded in citizens’ memory,” he said, adding that comparisons with the past have no place in current politics.
Asked about elections, he reiterated they will take place in 2027 and that the electoral law will remain unchanged. He emphasized government stability and his party’s lead in all polls.
Daily Life and Citizen Support
Inflation and Income
The Prime Minister acknowledged the impact of inflation, especially on renters. He highlighted government efforts to support disposable income through tax measures and stricter controls to prevent profiteering.
A new Independent Consumer Authority will consolidate regulatory bodies to intervene more effectively in the market.
Housing and Empty Properties
New measures will target young people and families with children, focusing on renovating and releasing vacant properties to the market. Tax incentives have already been implemented to encourage property utilization.
OPEKEPE Payments and Livestock Disease
OPEKEPE payments are scheduled for November, targeting real farmers and livestock breeders. An emergency fund will also compensate breeders who lost animals due to disease, ensuring recovery of income until herds can be rebuilt.
ELTA Postal Service
Reforms in ELTA will ensure rural citizens continue to have access to postal services through alternative solutions, even as some locations are consolidated.
Traffic and Public Transport
Solutions for Athens’ traffic include boosting bus fleets and extending Metro Line 4. 800 new buses have already been added, and the goal is to increase route frequency within six months.
Geopolitical and Energy Upgrades
LNG and Greek Shipping
Greece is being upgraded geopolitically and energetically through LNG and gas transport agreements. Greek shipping controls over 25% of global LNG transport capacity, positioning the country as a strategic hub.
Meetings with Trump and Erdogan
The Prime Minister mentioned upcoming meetings with Donald Trump and Recep Tayyip Erdogan, emphasizing the importance of stable cooperation and calm management of Greek-Turkish relations.
Greece’s Role
“Greece becomes a provider of energy security for the Balkans and Ukraine,” he said, noting the country’s strategic position as an energy and geopolitical hub, significantly enhancing Greek-American relations.