Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the past week as “turbulent,” both within Greece and internationally, emphasizing significant developments that have raised crucial questions about the country’s trajectory in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.

In a Sunday post, Mitsotakis addressed recent events in Parliament, particularly the debate on the Tempi train tragedy and the motion of no confidence against his government. He stated:

“The motion of no confidence was a constitutional process that concluded as our democracy dictates. Beyond political confrontation, what truly matters is how we move forward to fulfill the demands of the majority of citizens who participated in the major protests. Truth, justice, modern trains—we must move faster to reform the state and eliminate what holds Greece back. This majority will judge us again in 2027 based on what we have achieved. We cannot and will not forget Tempi. We are the first to demand the trial for this unspeakable tragedy to begin. At the same time, we will continue our government’s work, as is our duty.”

European Developments and Greece’s Defense Spending

Mitsotakis also touched on European affairs, particularly regarding defense spending, stating:

“Our country, like all other European nations, can now utilize the escape clause so that increases in defense investments are not counted toward the deficit calculation. This is a major success for Greece, further strengthening our national security.”

Economic Growth and Employment Gains

The Prime Minister highlighted recent economic successes, citing two reports from ELSTAT (the Hellenic Statistical Authority):

• Unemployment dropped to 8.7%, the lowest in 17 years, marking a three-point decrease from the previous year and nearly ten points since January 2019.
• The Greek economy grew by 2.3% in 2024, compared to just 0.9% in the Eurozone, with a particularly strong performance in the last quarter.
• Investments surged, with gross fixed capital formation up by 9% and exports increasing by 3.6%.

Additionally, he noted that the credit rating agency DBRS recently upgraded Greece’s economy, further affirming the country’s stability and growth prospects.

Major Public Health Initiative

Mitsotakis promoted the “PROLAMVANO” (Prevent) program, a free cardiovascular risk screening initiative targeting 5.2 million citizens aged 30–70. He urged citizens to take advantage of the screenings, emphasizing that early detection could save 20,000 lives per million participants.

Housing for Students and Military Personnel

The Prime Minister acknowledged the housing difficulties faced by students and military personnel, outlining government interventions:

• Student housing:
  • Increased housing allowance to €2,500 for those in shared accommodation.
  • Construction of five new student dormitories for 10,000 students.
  • Renovation of existing dorms, including a €20 million upgrade to the Athens Men’s Student Hall on Patission Street.
• Military housing:
  • Inauguration of 172 new apartments for armed forces personnel in Chaidari.
  • A 4,000-unit housing program by 2030, benefiting military personnel, doctors, and teachers in remote areas.

Tourism Support & Welfare Reforms

• The “Tourism for All” program is expanding, with €25 million in funding and increased subsidies of up to €600 for vulnerable groups.
• A new digital welfare payment system will launch on March 15, streamlining the distribution of 19 social benefits through prepaid cards.

Public Transport Upgrades in Thessaloniki

• 15 new buses have already hit the streets in Thessaloniki, with 26 more coming by the end of March.
• The OASTH bus fleet will soon include 151 brand-new vehicles, replacing older models and improving public transport efficiency.

Energy Security & Hydrocarbon Exploration

• The government has launched an international tender for hydrocarbon exploration in the Ionian Sea and south of the Peloponnese.
• Companies including Chevron and HELLENiQ Energy have expressed interest, signaling growing international confidence in Greece as an energy investment destination.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Mitsotakis concluded his post by reiterating that his government remains committed to reform, economic stability, and national security. He acknowledged public dissatisfaction but emphasized that his administration’s work will be judged by the people in 2027 based on tangible results.

As Greece navigates internal and external challenges, the coming years will be critical in shaping the country’s future—both politically and economically.