Antonis Samaras urges a national plan and tougher stance on Turkey at Crete forum

Former Greek prime minister Antonis Samaras addressed a think‑tank event in Heraklion, calling for a coherent national strategy to tackle the economy, demographic decline, migration and infrastructure needs. He warned that “communication has replaced politics” and argued that Greece must revive substantive policy debate.

Samaras criticised the current government’s handling of European funds, tax policy and public‑sector spending, proposing a reduction of tax rates for small‑ and medium‑size enterprises and the abolition of advance tax payments. He highlighted the risk of Crete becoming an over‑touristed destination and mentioned the recent withdrawal of Exxon Mobil from regional energy projects.

On foreign policy, Samaras said Turkey’s actions must “have a cost”, urging the convening of an extraordinary European summit on Turkish challenges and even suggesting the use of a veto in EU or NATO forums if Ankara does not cease its claims in the Aegean. He also cautioned against complacency in Greek‑Albanian relations, linking minority rights to Albania’s EU path.