During a briefing for political editors today, government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis was asked to comment on the recent interview of former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras. Initially, Marinakis stated, “We will not comment on the former prime minister’s interview.”

When pressed about Samaras’ characterization of New Democracy as a hybrid of PASOK, Marinakis responded:

“Politics is about policies, work, and results—not labels. I cannot recall a more liberal tax policy than ours, nor a more ideologically consistent stance on immigration. Our proposal to establish non-state universities is both timely and necessary. We have signed numerous agreements that will benefit the country for decades to come. We have broken the ideological grip of the left in universities, and the ‘law and order’ doctrine cannot be described as left or center-left. Our government speaks through its achievements. Our policies are grounded in the principles of New Democracy and reflect the aspirations of the silent majority of citizens.”

“Vertical Corridor” to Become Eastern Europe’s Key Energy Artery

At the same briefing, Marinakis emphasized Greece’s pivotal role in securing energy and geopolitical stability for Eastern Europe. He highlighted the recent agreements reached during the two-day P-TEC Forum in Athens, which are expected to generate thousands of well-paid jobs, foster growth in local communities, and lead to lower energy costs for households and businesses.

“The ‘Vertical Corridor’ — linking Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, and even Slovakia and Hungary, starting from Alexandroupolis — is set to become the central energy artery of Eastern Europe and a critical factor in reducing the continent’s dependence on Russian gas,” Marinakis said.

He also pointed to the broad parliamentary support for the tax reform measures announced by the Prime Minister at the Thessaloniki International Fair, describing the approval as proof that the government’s policies are realistic, socially just, and responsive to the needs of citizens and the economy. Despite initial criticism from opposition parties, Marinakis stressed that the reforms are substantial and well-planned.

Full Statement Highlights

Marinakis further detailed the energy agreements signed recently in Greece, including ExxonMobil’s expanded role in offshore exploration in the Ionian Sea through its partnership with Energean and HelleniQ Energy. This marks a new chapter in Greece’s energy history, with undersea resources being tapped to benefit the economy, energy balance, and public revenues.

Additionally, Greece and Southeastern Europe have secured a long-term strategic LNG supply line from the United States, enhancing the region’s energy security and diversification.

These developments, Marinakis noted, position Greece as a key gateway for Europe in energy and geopolitics amid global uncertainties.

Tax Reform and Economic Progress

The government’s comprehensive tax reform, approved by an overwhelming majority in Parliament, includes reductions in income tax brackets and special provisions for young people—such as a zero tax rate for those under 25 earning up to €20,000, and a reduced rate for those aged 26-30. Since 2019, 83 taxes and contributions have been cut, contributing to a drop in unemployment to a 17-year low and significant wage increases.

Parliamentary votes showed strong bipartisan support for these reforms, reinforcing the government’s socially conscious and development-oriented agenda.

Combating Inflation and Consumer Protection

Marinakis cited recent data showing Greece has the lowest food inflation in the EU, with measures such as price cuts on over 2,000 supermarket products and intensive inspections by DIMEA resulting in significant fines for violations, including against multinational companies. The creation of an Independent Authority for Consumer Protection with 300 auditors was also highlighted.

Law Enforcement and Public Safety Initiatives

Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis announced new initiatives to tighten laws on illegal firearms possession and increase penalties for related crimes. The government is enhancing police forces with more officers and modern equipment, upgrading departments focused on organized crime, and implementing community support programs in education to prevent violence.

Social Welfare and Heating Allowance

Applications are now open for the heating allowance aimed at supporting households with energy costs. Beneficiaries are selected based on income, property criteria, and regional climate severity, with allowances ranging from €100 to €1,200. The subsidy is tax-free and not subject to confiscation.