Article by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic Diplomacy and Openness, Kostas Fragogiannis, in a special edition of “Naftemporiki” newspaper for the 87th Thessaloniki International Fair (Athens, 08.09.2023)

"Sailing the Greek brand across global markets"

Structural reforms in various sectors of state activity are once again at the forefront of the Mitsotakis government's agenda for the 2023-2027 term. The consistent and systematic effort to modernize Greek society continues. The transformation of the Greek economic model to an increasingly more productive, more outward-looking, and more innovative is underway and progressing.

In Economic Diplomacy, in particular, we continue with undiminished intensity and dedication. Our objectives are clear: economic security, robustness, and the continuous strengthening of Greece's position in the international arena. After all, the Greek economy’s data confirm this. Encouraging forecasts project high growth rates of 3% on average for the next four years.

Our ultimate goal is a model of sustainable growth that is both environmentally conscious and built on solid foundations. We envision growth propelled more by investments than consumption. It is based on innovative sectors of the economy as well as on exports of high-tech products and services. It consistently reinforces Greece’s stature and reputation as a pillar of stability and prosperity in the wider South East Mediterranean region, serving also as a gateway to the European market.

We believe that this triptych of boosting exports, attracting investments, and strengthening Greece's international presence and role, concerns and benefits the entire Greek population. Society will eventually witness an increase in income and a rise in standard of living.

Steered by our annual National Strategic Plan for Extroversion, established in 2021, which includes measurable goals and targeted actions, we continue to elevate Economic Diplomacy on a bilateral and multilateral level.

Of equal significance, we continuously support the international outreach of the Greek business community. We promote and defend the economic and commercial interests of Greek enterprises abroad. We fortify our modern, cohesive national brand through consistent representation in global markets by state, market institutions, and businesses. To this end, we will further employ "business councils". Through these councils, cooperation between Greek and foreign enterprises in areas of mutual interest is institutionalized and subsequently strengthened.

We once again place particular priority on energy diplomacy and international cooperation on environmental issues, with an emphasis on security, interconnectivity, and securing alternative sources and routes. Our aim is to encourage innovative projects in the energy/environment sector, integrating cutting-edge technologies (much like initiatives such as the Astypalea Smart & Sustainable Island, GR-eco islands, etc.).

Similarly, we continue to systematically foster relations and partnerships with traditional partners such as the USA and Central and South Eastern Europe. At the same time, we are bolstering our connections with strategic partners in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. We are expanding our reach towards other emerging and dynamic markets. India is one of them, a vast market with significant challenges and with considerable potential for collaboration. Following the historic visit of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, to Athens a few days ago, on the 25th of August, we are already planning a business mission in the coming months.

With the valuable, systematic, and harmonious cooperation between public and private sectors, the political and business world, that we have secured during the previous term in office, we are moving forward with a shared vision and specific goals by 2027 for: a) increasing exports to 60% of the GDP, b) attracting investments in technology, innovation, and biosciences, and c) generating 80% of electricity from green sources.

Filled with optimism for the prospects of Greek economy and committed to the goals of Economic Diplomacy, we get to work immediately and sail our national brand across global markets.

September 8, 2023