“There is no stronger defense for the country than an economy it produces,” the Minister of Development stressed Takis Theodorikakos Speaking to the 2nd European Entrepreneurship Conference of the Athens Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Economist, on “How can Greek SMEs supply innovation, competitiveness and prosperity in an unstable global economy?”
The minister emphasized that in a world of intense geopolitical upheavals and changing conditions of competition, “the Greece we envision and create is a Greece that produces, exports, progresses, confidently.” Referring to the new Development Law, Takis Theodorikakos spoke of a “tool of national importance”, which mobilizes 1 billion euros for investment over the next two years, with the aim of boosting industry and primary sector and supporting the border areas and the weaker areas.
He also stressed that the attempt to regain half billion euros is under way from the 2004 and 2011 development laws and as soon as the process is completed there will be a complete public report.
He emphasized that the perspective of sustainable development is not limited to development law, but supports a comprehensive national plan, which is the largest development program for all Greeks.
As he said, through the three powerful pillars – of the Recovery Fund, the new NSRF and the National Development Program – resources of more than € 57 billion are mobilized in public and private investment to reach every corner of the country and reduce inequalities: social, economic, regional and intricate.
He made a special reference to the small and medium -sized enterprises, which he described as “the backbone of the Greek economy, in which the heart of the Greek economy beats.” Mr Theodorikakos noted that the development law includes regimes tailored to their needs – from extroversion and social entrepreneurship, with the ability to integrate independent professionals. He added: “Developmental law regimes are in addition to the NSRF, offering the media the possibility of utilizing multiple funding for their investment planning.”
Mr Theodorikakos also referred to the reforms implemented by the Ministry to reduce 25% of the administrative burden on businesses, as well as the creation of the new independent market supervision and consumer protection.
“Growth cannot stand without rules. In cases such as recently in the field of private health insurance, we have shown that we do not hesitate to intervene when abusive or unfair practices appear. The market needs transparency, trust and equal terms for everyone, “he said.
It described it as critical to utilize innovation and artificial intelligence for the new productive model, highlighting the role of the “lighthouse” artificial intelligence factory, created by the participation of leading research institutions.
“As no one stopped the cellphone and no one stopped the internet, so no one will stop artificial intelligence. And the crucial thing is to realize how we will use it properly and not to fear it. AI will change production, change the way we work, perhaps the way we think. Our debt is not to oust the future, but to do it our own, “he said.
Finally, the Minister of Development also referred to the Chambers, the role they have in the Greek economy and spoke of the need to modernize the institutional framework that regulates their operation.