Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed members of the global Greek community at the “ATHINA26: Empowering Greece’s Next Generation” conference, emphasizing that strengthening ties with Greeks abroad has become a national priority for his government.
Speaking at an event organized by The Hellenic Initiative at the Acropolis Museum, Mitsotakis praised the contribution of the Greek diaspora and argued that Greeks around the world remain a strategic asset for the country’s future.
A strategic partnership with the Greek diaspora
Mitsotakis said Greece’s relationship with its diaspora extends beyond cultural identity and represents a source of knowledge, investment and international influence.
He highlighted government initiatives aimed at increasing political participation among Greeks abroad, including allowing overseas voting and introducing postal voting, arguing that every Greek citizen should have the ability to participate in the democratic process regardless of where they live.
“The future of Hellenism depends on these living connections that cross continents and generations,” Mitsotakis said.
Economic recovery and investment confidence
The prime minister presented Greece’s economic transformation as one of the country’s major achievements in recent years.
He pointed to:
- declining unemployment,
- stronger public finances,
- increased foreign investment,
- digital modernization of state services,
- efforts to reverse the “brain drain” and encourage Greeks to return home.
Mitsotakis argued that Greece has moved from a period of economic crisis toward becoming a “pillar of stability, resilience and cooperation” in the wider region.
Digital transformation and new opportunities
The Greek prime minister highlighted digital reforms as a key example of modernization, noting that public services have become more efficient and accessible.
He also stressed the importance of artificial intelligence, saying Greece must prepare for major technological changes that will reshape economies and labor markets.
According to Mitsotakis, the challenge for Greece and Europe is to use new technologies while ensuring social adaptation.
Infrastructure and national development
Mitsotakis also referred to major infrastructure projects, including the completion of the E65 Central Greece Motorway, which connects Thessaly with Western Macedonia and strengthens Greece’s transport network.
He described infrastructure development as part of a broader strategy to improve regional connectivity, tourism, trade and investment.
Greece’s geopolitical role
Addressing international challenges, Mitsotakis said Greece must navigate a period of major geopolitical change, including regional conflicts, energy challenges and security concerns.
He emphasized the role of Greece as a stable partner within Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
The prime minister also highlighted the modernization of the Greek Armed Forces, saying national defense capabilities had reached their strongest level in decades.
A call for cooperation beyond political divisions
In his closing remarks, Mitsotakis called for a broader national perspective beyond political polarization.
He argued that governments change, but Greece’s long-term interests require cooperation, investment in talent and continued engagement between the homeland and the diaspora.
“The greatest asset of Greece is its people,” Mitsotakis said, encouraging Greeks abroad to continue contributing through knowledge, investment and partnerships.
The message of the conference was clear: the government views the Greek diaspora not only as a cultural extension of Greece, but as a key partner in the country’s economic, technological and geopolitical future.
Source: pagenews.gr