In today’s rapidly changing international landscape, utilizing digital technology is a crucial factor for a country's development and prosperity. Recognizing this reality, the government under Kyriakos Mitsotakis has been advancing the digital transformation of the state. This process, initiated in the previous four-year term, continues at an unabated pace, enhancing not just citizens’ daily lives but also Greece's international image. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, being a dynamic and outward-looking ministry that understands the challenges of this new era firsthand, is integral to the effort to build digital Greece.
The project "Consular Services Process Transformation" that we recently presented along with Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, marks a significant step in this direction. Expected to be fully operational very soon, this reform introduces digital tools like artificial intelligence to facilitate a more direct communication between Consular Authorities and citizens abroad, as well as the rapid, remote processing a sizeable amount of their requests.
The digitization of consular services promises multiple benefits.
First, for Greeks living abroad, it reduces the need to physically visit consular offices, ensuring better and faster service, less hassle, and eventually enhancing their daily life.
Second, for our Consular Authorities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, digitalization means decongestion, resource savings, better organization, and service enhancement.
Third, for Greece itself, this digital transformation is part of our effort to create a state that leverages knowledge and innovation, evolving effectively with a focus on its citizens. It is this image of modern Greece which we aspire for our Diplomatic Authorities worldwide to project, being the first gateway to Greek reality for Greeks and foreign nationals abroad.
Above all, by improving services for Greeks living abroad through digitalization of consular services, we aim to strengthen their connection with their motherland. Following the lifting of voting restrictions for the Diaspora and establishing a special section on gov.gr for Greeks abroad, their remote service by Consular Authorities intends to bring them even closer to Greece.
We are concretely demonstrating that Greece is changing, becoming more productive, digital, and equitable. With the Diaspora as its ally, Greece can become stronger. In this endeavor, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs plays a pivotal role.
November 25, 2023