FP at Davos: Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis
Jan 19, 2024
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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis discusses Greece's economic revival, support for Israel's right to self-defense, challenges in communicating with the global south, Greece-Turkey relations, AI in elections, and the implications of Donald Trump's potential reelection for Greece and Europe.
Greece aims to act as an honest broker and facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza, while supporting Israel's right to self-defense.
Greece stands with Ukraine against Russian aggression, while acknowledging historical and cultural ties with Russia.
Deep dives
Greece's Economic Revival and Role in the Middle East
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Kiriakos Mitzotakis, Greece has experienced a remarkable economic revival. The country has achieved impressive growth rates, outstripping the rest of Europe, and has made significant progress in reducing its debt. Greece's important role in the Middle East, particularly through its massive shipping industry, has also been highlighted. Mitzotakis discussed Greece's measured position in the Middle Eastern crisis, supporting Israel's right to self-defense while expressing concern for the plight of innocent people in Gaza. Greece aims to act as an honest broker and facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza. Additionally, Mitzotakis emphasized the need for a political solution to address the root causes of the conflict and urged Europe to play a more active role in the region.
Support for Ukraine and the Challenges of Dealing with Russia
Greece has shown unequivocal support for Ukraine, providing both diplomatic and military assistance. Mitzotakis emphasized the importance of standing with Ukraine against Russian aggression, while acknowledging Greece's historical and cultural ties with Russia. He highlighted the danger of allowing force to challenge the international order and expressed concern about the erosion of Russia's long-term growth prospects due to its wartime economy. Mitzotakis praised Europe's united stance in supporting Ukraine, and Greece is committed to providing ongoing financial and military support. The importance of maintaining sanctions on Russia was emphasized, as well as the need for an alliance between governments and tech companies to address threats posed by disinformation and election interference.
The Greek Election and Lessons for the Global Rise of Nationalism
As the center-right leader who achieved a resounding reelection victory, Prime Minister Mitzotakis discussed the factors contributing to the success of his party. He attributed their win to delivering on commitments, focusing on the economy, and successfully managing multiple crises. Mitzotakis emphasized the importance of trust and maintaining the contract with citizens. He acknowledged the genuine grievances behind the rise of populism and nationalism, emphasizing the need to explain complex realities to the public and avoid alienating voters. Mitzotakis advocated for a triangulation approach, combining liberal economic policies, responsible patriotism, and progressive social policies. He also highlighted the need to address the challenges posed by AI, particularly in safeguarding democratic processes and bridging the trust gap between tech leaders and policymakers.
Host Ravi Agrawal sits down with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for a special one-on-one conversation at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.