Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is currently giving an interview to Stamatina Tsimtsili discussing the final stretch for the upcoming European elections on Sunday, June 9th.
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=329086383563132
Kyriakos Mitsotakis live:
“The pre-election period is an intense process, requiring a strict schedule, good food, and exercise whenever we find time. When you have good partners, time passes without you noticing much. Now there are 5 days left of the election campaign. We see the end in sight, but the last week is the most critical and demanding to convince citizens that these elections are of particular importance and to address the sense of apathy that exists throughout Europe.
Each party sets its own goals. This is a national election, but let us not forget that we are voting to elect the 21 Greek MEPs. It is important to elect MEPs who will first wear the jersey of the Greek National Team, as we had MEPs in the last five years who did not do this.
It saddens me that we cannot find common ground on national policies. I am referring to inflation and multinationals. We see multinationals pricing the same products differently depending on the size of the market. I took on the multinationals and believed there would be consensus. When we undertake a Greek initiative in Europe, why shouldn’t we go to Europe together and criticize the government?”
Mr. Kasselakis, a newcomer to politics, faces my political criticism, especially regarding his proposal of measures costing 45.8 billion over four years, potentially leading the country to bankruptcy. Citizens don’t want empty promises from a novice politician.
Asset declarations should have been submitted already. Every political leader must disclose their assets and those of their spouse upon entering politics. My declarations have been scrutinized for 20 years, and my wife was unjustly persecuted by the previous SYRIZA government. The intensity of this discussion stems from Mr. Kasselakis’ claim of honesty while accusing others. We’ll see how he handles the rigorous process of asset disclosure.
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Alexis Tsipras was our main political opponent since I was elected president of ND. We fought hard battles. Mr. Kasselakis is new and will be tested. I notice a stylistic thread linking them with toxicity and unrealistic promises. Especially regarding uncosted promises, these belong to the past.
I am not considering stepping down anytime soon. It is an honor for a Greek prime minister to be considered for a European position, but there is no chance, even if offered, that I would accept a European position. I will honor the vote and trust of the Greek people.
Justice for Tempi will be served as soon as possible without haste. We have 34 defendants; the state has done everything it could to facilitate the investigation. For those who believe there are criminal political responsibilities, Parliament is ready to discuss it. I must let justice do its work and not exploit the pain of the relatives as shamelessly as other parties did. We never did anything like that with the tragedy in Mati.”
Program “My Home
“We are finalizing negotiations with the EU regarding loans we can obtain from the Recovery Fund to expand the program to couples aged 40-50 years. Announcements will be made soon about the program, which will be implemented after the European elections.”
Student Housing
“I am particularly concerned about student housing. We have five Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for new student dormitories and are considering an ambitious intervention to renovate existing dormitories that are in poor condition. We are seeking the right way to accomplish this.”
Politics
“The work is serious and requires professionalism. However, when I take off my suit, I can be more relaxed. Having a sense of humor makes it easier for others to express their opinions. When things are relaxed, it helps our colleagues see us as approachable people they can open up to. Flattery leads nowhere. A significant portion of the work we do on TikTok is inspired by my own ideas. The job is serious and requires professionalism, but I can be more relaxed when off-duty. Humor helps others feel comfortable sharing their opinions and makes us more approachable. Flattery leads nowhere. Much of our TikTok work is my own inspiration.
We made tough decisions about stadiums after Lyggeridis’s murder, and when they reopened, they were different. We had competitive playoffs without incidents, exemplifying European standards.”
Social media
Platforms are intended to create addiction among young users, and we need to address this issue. The next step involves regulations to limit internet addiction among youth. I fear we are experimenting with young people. Europe has the ability to intervene. Platforms offer content they believe interests us, but they can provide the opportunity for browsing from scratch.
I would like to lead a pan-European effort. I believe Europe will be at the forefront, as it was with GDPR and artificial intelligence. I am disturbed by the attack on my wife, which appears to be coordinated and ongoing to this day. I stand by her and will testify in court. It saddens me that this attack continues, even from today’s SYRIZA, with strong misogyny, fake news, and toxicity. Despite her toughness, Mareva has found a new professional activity that does not create problems. We are doing very well, enjoying life with our children, and I urge everyone to participate in the European elections to strengthen Greece’s reputation in Europe.”
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