Conditions for a real recovery present for first time, Dragasakis tells head of commerce federation

He made the statements in a meeting with the head of the Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (HCCE) Vassilis Korkidis. The priorities of the upcoming period will be to stimulate investments and create new jobs, with the government hoping for a substantial contribution from business in this effort, Dragasakis said.
"It is necessary to adopt a new, effective and efficient model of cooperation between the state, social collectives and market players," Dragasakis noted.
According to an announcement, Korkidis presented the HCCE's demands and proposals and Dragasakis expressed support for measures generating conditions that encourage economic activity and employment, while giving a second chance for the entrepreneurs hard hit by the lengthy crisis.
They also discussed the possibility of providing liquidity to SMEs through specially-designed banking programmes and new financing instruments specialising in micro-loans.
Korkidis outlined specific proposals and initiatives for economic growth on the Greek islands, with Dragasakis noting that the government is "working systematically" to draw up a comprehensive plan for islandness that will address both the long-term problems of the islands and the current challenges, such as refugee flows. Both sides noted a need to exploit developmental potential on Greek islands in sectors other than tourism.
The minister and HCCE head promised to arrange a follow-up meeting soon and thus launch regular cooperation on specific issues.