Pierakakis: Ready to Intervene if Needed Due to Middle East Crisis – DETh Development Strategy Unchanged

In a clear message that Greece is no longer the country of bankruptcy but a beacon of stability, Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierakakis appeared in an interview today (June 25, 2025) on SKY TV. He emphasized that the government is ready to intervene if necessary due to the crisis in the Middle East. Pierakakis discussed international developments and the impact of the war in the region, noting that while the government closely monitors the situation, there is currently no indication justifying immediate intervention in fuel prices. He reminded that oil prices remain at $68 per barrel, significantly lower than the $115 recorded at the start of the Ukraine conflict. ‘We are not the Greece of 2015,’ the minister underlined, highlighting that the country has surpluses, growth, and greater fiscal resilience. Despite challenges, ‘we can do even better,’ he added. Regarding plans for this year’s Thessaloniki International Fair, Pierakakis clarified that the DETh package will proceed normally based on the new logic of European spending rules, ensuring continuous support for society and the economy, even in tough times. The announcements will target middle-class relief and developmental momentum. Pierakakis ruled out any possibility of reinstating the 13th and 14th salaries for public employees, emphasizing targeted spending for broader social groups. On the housing crisis, he acknowledged the lack of available homes and highlighted electronic rent payment as the next step to combat shadow economy issues. He also noted the strength of Greek banks and praised the digital payment system Iris. For Swiss franc loans, the government is working towards a fair solution. Lastly, the minister mentioned the integration of OPEKEPE into AADE for agricultural subsidy control, promising a phase of investigation and recovery where irregularities exist.