Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasizes economic convergence and retail politics

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed the General Assembly of the Association of Retail Enterprises of Greece (SELPE), emphasizing the concept of ‘retail politics.’ He stated that citizens should never be taken for granted and that political leaders must maintain constant contact and trust with society, much like a merchant with a customer. Mitsotakis highlighted the government's goal to increase disposable income and rapidly converge the Greek economy with the European average, noting that Greece has already covered two-thirds of the gap following the crisis.

During his remarks, the Prime Minister also discussed the impact of artificial intelligence on the economy and labor market, suggesting it could serve as a tool for productivity despite concerns regarding job losses. He reiterated a commitment to supporting entrepreneurship through tax interventions and a business-friendly institutional framework.

In the political sphere, PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis has criticized the government's economic management, proposing an alternative productive model focused on manufacturing and high-value tourism rather than real estate. PASOK has also raised concerns regarding the lack of effective housing policies and the rising cost of living, specifically questioning the government's refusal to tax excess profits from refineries to support citizens facing high energy costs.