Mitsotakis to Bloomberg on the Port of Piraeus and other issues

Speaking with Bloomberg News Editor-in-Chief John Micklethwait at the New Economy Forum in Singapore, Mitsotakis said, “We have made it absolutely clear that there can be no agreement without Ukraine,” adding, “And of course, Europeans must be part of any discussion concerning future security arrangements in Europe.”

The report recalls that, according to a 28-point peace plan put forward by American and Russian sides, Ukraine would be called upon to cede large areas of territory currently occupied by Russia, cap the size of its armed forces, and gradually lift sanctions against Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is said to be considering the plan, although there is no indication that he is ready to accept those specific conditions.

At the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Singapore, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis spoke about the state of the Greek economy, developments in Ukraine, ties with the United States, and Greece’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia.

Mitsotakis highlighted Greece’s “remarkable comeback,” noting primary budget surpluses, improved debt metrics, and a growth rate surpassing the European average. He stated that the crisis is now behind Greece.

Regarding reforms, he emphasized that while some solutions come from Europe, the tougher reforms are a national responsibility. He underlined the government’s stability and expressed optimism about economic performance despite ongoing challenges related to the cost of living.

On the war in Ukraine, Mitsotakis stressed the importance of learning lessons and European support for Ukraine, clarifying that the Trump administration’s peace plan has not been officially shared with European leaders.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence in strong transatlantic relations and the potential for cooperation with the U.S. He also said Greece can serve as a bridge for collaboration between Europe and Asia, highlighting the role of Singapore and ASEAN countries.

During a public discussion at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum with John Micklethwait, Editor-in-Chief of Bloomberg News, Mitsotakis detailed Greece’s economic trajectory, Ukraine developments, U.S. relations, and Greece’s position in Europe-Asia cooperation. The discussion was broadcast live on ertnews.gr.

“Greece has made a remarkable recovery, producing primary surpluses, improving its debt situation, and growing faster than the European average. We’ve shown that the crisis is behind us. We have proven that Greece can have reliable governments,” the Prime Minister stated.

“Some solutions are European, but the difficult reforms remain the national responsibility of each country. We have a stable government with a parliamentary majority. Our next elections will be held in 2027, and the ruling party maintains a comfortable lead. I am optimistic about Greece’s economic performance. Yes, we face cost-of-living issues, but we have fulfilled our commitments, and the new budget will include relief measures to tackle inflation. Unlike some other governments, our performance allows us to support the population without forgetting that we had to implement tough reforms, such as pension reforms,” Mitsotakis added.

“Europe has been awakened by the war in Ukraine”

Responding to a question, the Prime Minister said, “We must learn lessons to make informed decisions,” and clarified that Trump’s peace plan has not been officially communicated to European leaders. “We have made clear that no agreement can happen without Ukraine. We understand that as Europeans we must provide economic support to Ukraine. I believe every European country is trying to address its own challenges, but it’s up to each to push reforms for coordinated progress,” he added.

“I have deep faith in transatlantic relations”

When asked about Trump’s reported preferences for authoritarian leaders like Erdoğan, Mitsotakis stressed that Greece’s relationship with the U.S. is strong, as it is a strategic partner. “We have shown we can cooperate effectively, especially in energy. I believe the goal regarding Turkey is to find a way to discuss maritime law without tension. It is my responsibility to strengthen our country’s defense capabilities. We maintain a deterrent posture against any potential threat,” he said.

Greece as a Bridge to Asia

Mitsotakis also referenced a constructive discussion with Singapore’s Prime Minister, noting shared values of free markets and the rule of law. “I see room for cooperation between Asian countries and Europe. I believe Singapore plays an important role, and we want closer ties with ASEAN countries. Greece can act as a bridge,” the Prime Minister concluded.