The Minister of Development, Takis Theodorikakos, speaking on ERTNEWS television.
Takis Theodorikakos emphasized that “a very important and innovative project to develop a comprehensive information system for the Armed Forces, as well as for all security forces,” is currently in full swing . As she stated, the project “is funded by the Ministry of Development using resources from the Recovery Fund,” and its progress is being monitored jointly with the Ministry of National Defense, as part of her collaboration with Minister Nikos Dendias.
“Upon its completion, we will have a complete picture, with data coming from all ground-based and aerial observation stations, not only for the Armed Forces, but also for the Coast Guard and Civil Protection forces. “It is something that shields us—which is why it is called ‘THORAX’—against serious threats,” the Minister of Development emphasized.
Meanwhile, Takis Theodorikakos announced that in June the Ministry of Development will announce a new development scheme, under the Development Law, for investments in the defense industry, amounting to 150 million euros in accelerated depreciation.
“We are obligated—and indeed must—have strong Armed Forces. However, we must also have a strong Greek defense industry. And we are working in an organized and collaborative manner in this sector,” he noted.
Continuing, the Minister of Development reiterated the need for a national social agreement that would involve price reductions on basic goods.
“From the very first day I assumed the duties of Minister of Development, I have said that the right of businesses to make a profit is absolutely respected. Without that, there is no economy, no investments, no jobs. But, equally, there must be respect for that segment of society that struggles to make ends meet or cannot make ends meet at all. “I have reached out to the Greek food industry and to supermarkets, asking that we reach a national social agreement that will include significant price reductions on basic products,” he noted.
At the same time, he emphasized that the government has taken strict measures to curb prices, including interventions in fuel prices and caps on profit margins in critical market sectors.
Referring to Alexis Tsipras, Takis Theodorikakos noted that the former prime minister has not come to terms with the mistakes of his administration.
“I would expect the former prime minister, as he starts anew, to openly admit that overtaxing the middle class was a tragic mistake. I would expect him to admit to another tragic mistake: his collaboration with the far right, but also that his rhetoric and policies of toxic division within Greek society were a tragic mistake. No one has the right to drag us back to the era of “either we finish them off or they finish us off” and “we’ll bury our political opponents six feet under.” These are unprecedented things, from which political life must make a definitive break,” he said.
The Minister of Development noted that New Democracy does not underestimate any political opponent, but will be judged by its consistency, credibility, and work.
“Our primary task is to be consistent and reliable in fulfilling what we promised in the 2023 elections. We are working consistently and with a plan so that when election time comes, we can say: everything we told you, we have put into practice.”
As he emphasized, “We are planning and envisioning Greece in 2030: A more productive economy and a safer homeland, with a society that will have even greater potential for everyone to live well, with fewer inequalities.”
Finally, Takis Theodorikakos referred to the consumer credit bill, which will be put out for public consultation next week and become law in June.
He emphasized that this is a “landmark bill, in accordance with European legislation, ” noting that it protects consumers from abusive banking practices regarding unsecured loans of up to 100,000 euros, such as consumer loans, credit cards, and repair loans, with a cap of between 30% and 50% on total charges.