‘Her investment Unicredit It is a loud proof of confidence in the Greek economy, “the Minister of National Economy and Finance emphasized this morning (24.6.2025). Kyriakos Pierrakakisat a meeting with Unicredit Group Managing Director, Andrea Orcel, and Alpha Bank Managing Director, Vasilis Psaltis.
The meeting, held at the Ministry of National Economy, discussed the investment of Unicredit in the Greek banking system and its importance, more broadly, on the march to the European Banking Union. Mr. Pierrakakis also met by Alpha Bank President Dimitris Tsitsiragos, as well as other administration officials.
Here are their statements:
Kyriakos Pierrakakis: Unicredit investment is also a European case
“I welcome Mr. Andrea Orsel, Managing Director of Unicredit, and Alpha Bank CEO, Mr. Vasilis Psaltis.
Their presence here seals a strategic agreement: Increasing Unicredit’s participation in Alpha Bank’s share capital. An investment that has not only economic value but also intense symbolism, both for Greece and Europe.
First, it is a loud proof of confidence in the Greek economy. In progress that has been made in recent years. Greece’s return to a trajectory of stability, credibility and development. This confidence, which a few years ago seemed unthinkable, today is completely founded.
It is also a confirmation of the spectacular reconstruction of the Greek banking sector. An area tested hard during the economic crisis, but today it has recovered its dynamics, with capital adequacy, digital innovation and growth orientation.
Unicredit’s investment, however, is not a purely Greek affair. It is also European. Because it highlights the essence of the European Union: a single, open market, where investments do not know borders and economic cooperation operates for the benefit of all.
This is the European acquis we want to strengthen: a union with deepening in its financial and banking integration, which supports, encourages and implements strategic synergies like this.
The European Union needs stronger, technologically advanced banks, which will be able to compete internationally and finance the transition of European economies.
With stability, confidence and common European orientation, your agreement can be a model of how the future should be built: on cooperation that strengthens the economy and serve society. “
Andrea Orsel: fertile environment for cross -border cooperation
“I would like to express my sincere assessment to the Minister of National Economy and Finance for today’s constructive and progressive debate. The Greek government has played a decisive role in shaping the appropriate conditions that have made Unicredit’s strategic collaboration with Alpha Bank – an institution with a strong dynamic, clear strategic vision and a leading team that is fully aligned with our long -term commitment.
The government’s commitment to stability, reforms and extroversion has created a fertile environment for long -term, cross -border cooperation and reflects the general European ambition for integration.
We especially praise Greece’s steady support for the promotion of the European Banking Union. In today’s complex geopolitical environment, only through a common vision and cooperation can we build a stronger Europe – a Europe that offers tangible results to its citizens through growth, opportunities and greater social integration. “
Vasilis Psaltis: Historical Evolution for the Greek Banking Sector
“I would like to thank the Minister for the opportunity to participate in today’s discussion. Strategic cooperation between Alpha Bank and Unicredit is a historical development for the Greek banking sector – as it reflects the confidence of one of the leading European financial institutions in the course of the Greek economy.
It coincides with a period during which Greece is characterized by extroversion and aspires to star in the strengthening of European financial architecture and Europe’s general progress.
Our joint effort with Unicredit is not limited to value creation. It focuses on supporting entrepreneurship and society, balanced regional development and providing opportunities for progress for all. “