Takis Theodorikakos: "Strategic collaboration with the technological giant OpenAI - Greece is an innovation hub in Southeastern Europe"

The Minister of Development underlined that “the use of artificial intelligence is not a luxury, but a prerequisite for progress and security for the country” and emphasized that “Greece was chosen to be one of the first seven EU countries to host AI Factory, a fact that confirms its role as an innovation hub in Southeastern Europe.”

He then noted that Thessaloniki is home to CERTH, "a major research center that plays a leading role in innovation and applied research in our country," while also referring to ThessIntec, reiterating his commitment that the Ministry of Development will ensure the necessary resources for its completion: "Despite the difficulties that have arisen, the project will be completed in any way, as it is a unique technology park that will make Thessaloniki a strong center of technological development for all of Europe."

As Mr. Theodorikakos emphasized, the collaboration with OpenAI is strategic in nature and focuses on two pillars:
– education, with pilot programs that enable teachers to utilize artificial intelligence tools in the classroom, in a pedagogical and safe manner;
– startups, with the creation of the Greek AI Accelerator in collaboration with Endeavor Greece, which will offer Greek start-ups access to OpenAI’s technology, the knowledge of international mentors, and collaboration and funding networks.

“Today’s initiative opens up new opportunities for the new generation, but also for Greeks abroad who will want to return to their homeland. With actions, we are making Greece more competitive, more productive and more innovative,” noted Mr. Theodorikakos.

And he added: “Our collaboration with OpenAI is another step in the country’s new productive model – a model based on innovation, extroversion and the reduction of inequalities.”