“In the first two development regimes – manufacturing and border areas – there was major response from the market. 361 investment plans were submitted with a budget of €1.5 billion, proving that the choice to put weight on industry was correct. Evaluation of proposals will be completed within 3 months” underlined Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos speaking on SKAI. At the same time he spoke about developments with ELTA, Antonis Samaras, Alexis Tsipras and Maria Karystianou.

The Development Minister then pointed out that:

• The mosaic of proposals shows confidence in the prospects of the Greek economy, as it covers all border prefectures and the large industrial regions of Greece.
• The priority is correct because industry increases productivity and gives better wages. Our young people must participate in this productive process, as there are enough entrepreneurs seeking employees with very good pay and can’t find them.
• The Government’s interest in the regions and in prefectures with incomes lower than the national average is practically proven.

Asked about ELTA, the Development Minister replied that “every reform and every change that is made must have been discussed with society and all data must have been given to citizens so that it is clear that it is positive for everyone” and continued that “effectiveness is higher and stronger when it proceeds with a majority way. Changes must be made together with society so that citizens feel we are doing something positive. That has always been our policy as New Democracy.”

He even gave as an example the new Independent Authority and the farmers’ markets where there was discussion for a long period with all stakeholders so that these changes would have great acceptance from society.

Regarding the possibility of new parties being formed, he said “ND is the party that unites Greeks, transcends dividing lines and has the central role in the political system, ensuring a positive forward course for Greek society”.

Referring to Antonis Samaras he stressed “it is useful for ND to be absolutely united because that will be useful for Greece”, while for Alexis Tsipras he commented that “he is moving towards a new party because there are very serious gaps in the opposition which he has obviously evaluated”.

Finally, for Maria Karystianou he stressed: “I join my voice with all our compatriots who want truth and justice in the Tempi case. I do not believe that finding oneself at the center of such a tragedy is a new political move, however in any case each person can participate in political life in whatever way he thinks. New parties are judged from the moment they are founded.”