Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the urgent need for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy and competitiveness during a televised interview with Richard Quest on CNN.
Speaking from London, Mr. Mitsotakis called for decisive action on shared challenges like defense, energy costs, and embracing green technologies, aligning with recommendations in the Draghi Report.
"The warning signs were clear even before the U.S. elections," Mr. Mitsotakis noted, pointing to energy price shocks and Europe's lagging investment in clean tech and AI innovation.
"This is a turning point. Decisions on collective defense funding, energy access, and advancing the Green Deal cannot be delayed any longer."
When asked about obstacles to implementing the Draghi Report's proposals, Mr. Mitsotakis expressed confidence in pushing forward despite potential resistance from individual EU member states.
"Bold steps are needed," he said, referencing past success with the NextGenerationEU recovery fund. "The moment demands collective European solutions, including exploring joint borrowing and deeper integration in areas like capital markets."
The interview also touched on global challenges, including the return of Donald Trump to the White House and its implications for Europe.
Mr. Mitsotakis viewed this political shift as a potential catalyst to address Europe's longstanding vulnerabilities, but he emphasized that internal reforms must come first. "The crisis has been here all along; now is the time to act."
Mr. Mitsotakis highlighted Greece's position as a model of resilience in Europe, citing fiscal discipline, tax reductions, and growth in sectors like manufacturing.
"We bring stability and success to the table, showing what’s possible when priorities are set right," he said.
On local achievements, Mr. Mitsotakis described the Thessaloniki Metro project as a symbol of Greece’s fusion of modernity and heritage.
With an underground museum integrated into one of the metro stations, he celebrated it as "an example of embracing our past while confidently looking toward the future."
Reflecting on digital regulation, Mr. Mitsotakis advocated for stricter oversight of social media and AI while maintaining innovation-friendly environments.
"We want technologies that ensure trust and safety, especially for the younger generation," he said.
The interview showcased Mr. Mitsotakis's vision for a dynamic, forward-thinking Greece and his advocacy for robust, unified action within Europe, as the continent faces geopolitical and economic challenges requiring unparalleled cooperation and leadership.