Greek Deputy Minister Thanasis Kontogeorgis defended the government economic strategy and early debt repayment plan during a television interview on Skai TV, rejecting opposition criticism as incomprehensible.
Speaking ahead of the Thessaloniki International Fair, the deputy minister outlined support measures for social groups, discussed Turkish marine parks, and responded to recent moves by former prime ministers Alexis Tsipras and Antonis Samaras.
Kontogeorgis said the debate surrounding the upcoming fair rests on two key premises. He stated that government economic policy and the hard work of the Greek public allow the state to return a growth dividend at every fair, describing this as a reality and an achievement that must be preserved in the future.
He added that although a pre-election fair will take place before national elections in 2027, economic policy remains consistent toward social groups. He noted that the administration maintains a framework of measures designed to deliver higher disposable and stable income to vulnerable citizens, pensioners, young people, families with children, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Opposition Criticism and Debt Repayment
Addressing opposition criticism over early debt repayment, Kontogeorgis described the objections as incomprehensible. He argued that the state has an obligation to lighten the financial burden on future generations and assist future governments regardless of which political party holds power.
The deputy minister criticized opposition promises by pointing to European regulations regarding expenditure ceilings. He stated that the administration announces permanent structural measures rather than temporary allowances, adding that recent debt management procedures have saved approximately 2 billion euros.
He noted that following years of financial difficulty, Greece will no longer be the European country with the largest deficit starting this year. He emphasized that the government aims to strengthen national credibility and creditworthiness through prudent financial management.
Economic Commitments and Budgetary Caution
The Thessaloniki International Fair is an annual trade and political forum held in northern Greece, where the sitting prime minister traditionally presents the government's economic agenda for the upcoming fiscal year. Kyriakos Mitsotakis currently serves as Prime Minister of Greece, while Alexis Tsipras and Antonis Samaras are former prime ministers who led previous administrations.
Kontogeorgis stressed that the current government will not present extravagant economic proposals similar to the Thessaloniki Programs put forward by opposition parties. He stated that existing policy allows the state to return the growth dividend in a fair and proportional manner to groups in need.
Recalling past measures, the deputy minister noted that 1.6 billion euros was distributed at last year's fair through economic support and tax exemptions. He stated that the government will not blow the budget, advising patience until official announcements are made after evaluating budget execution figures at the end of August.
He made special reference to retirees, stating that pensioners can place their trust in Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the government to safeguard their interests.
Political Disputes and Foreign Affairs
Asked about former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras scheduling a public address shortly before Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Kontogeorgis called the move a huge institutional impropriety. He pointed out that the presidency of such proceedings belongs primarily to the sitting prime minister, questioning whether Tsipras was trying to preempt government announcements and stating that the administration will deliver appropriate responses.
Turning to European affairs, Kontogeorgis stated that preparations have already begun for the upcoming Greek Presidency of the European Union. He explained that the presidency will play a critical role in European developments over the next decade and will help determine the next European Union budget.
Regarding regional issues including Turkish marine parks, Kontogeorgis stated that Greece has built up diplomatic capital and boosted its defense capabilities. Calling for calm, composure, and trust in the government, he concluded that the Greek side will always provide appropriate responses to safeguard national interests.
