A success story in the heart of the crisis characterizes the presence of the European Investment Bank in our country by the Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis With today’s post on social media.
During the years of the Greek economic crisis, when conditions were extremely difficult and access to chapters almost non -existent, a rare story was born: the creation of a modern and dynamic venture capital in Greece, he points out.
Mr. Pierrakakis in his post states:
Thanks to the strategic intervention of the European Investment Fund (EIF) and with decisive support from the European Investment Bank (EIB), we have managed to convert an almost non -existent landscape into a driving force for innovation and entrepreneurship. Today, we number:
- • More than 35 active fund managers,
- • funds of over 2 billion euros available for investment,
- • Dozens of Greek startups with international perspective, many of which have become examples to imitate.
Beyond the numbers, the most important result is the change of culture. Young people, talented scientists and businessmen, have dared to create, export know -how, claim a role in the world market.
As he points out in his post in this context, he had the opportunity yesterday to meet in Luxembourg with EIB President Nadia Calviño and Greek Vice President Yiannis Tsakiris.
The debate, he stresses, has confirmed the strategic importance of Greece -EIB cooperation, a relationship with a deep and timeless development footprint. The country’s funding from the EIB remains steady at 2.3-2.5 billion euros a year, with more than 3 billion euros this year-with a particular emphasis on business strengthening.
The bank’s contribution over the years has been critical: it supported infrastructure, utility companies, banks and the general operation of the economy, even in the most difficult times.
In view of the modern challenges – defense, green transition, digitization – the strengthening of the role of the EIB is necessary. We agreed that Greece can use the bank’s tools even more targeted, combining funding with technical assistance, for safe and quality project implementation.
The Minister makes special mention to the EIB team for Greece and Cyprus – Investment Team Greece & Cyprus – for their daily, excellent work with professionalism, know -how and dedication.
The EIB is today more than ever a critical partner for the development of the country – and strengthening this cooperation is a priority with long -term horizon.