The Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakiswas invited by the International Monetary Fund to participate as a speaker in a high-level panel on “Strategies for the Future: Digitization of the Economy and Artificial Intelligence”, in order to present Greece’s reform experience in the digitization of public administration and the tax system.

Estonian Finance Minister Jurgen Ligi and Lebanon’s Minister of Digital Governance Kamal Shehadi also participated in the discussion, moderated by Ela Dabla-Norris, Deputy Director of the IMF’s Department of Fiscal Affairs.

Mr. Pierrakakis, presenting the Greek model of digital reform, emphasized that the digitization of the tax system has proven to be the most effective tool for combating tax evasion and restoring citizens’ trust in the state.

“Ten years ago, the headline in our country was that the tax evasion is everywhere. Today Greece presents surpluses, public debt is reduced and tax evasion has been significantly reduced. When digital policy is implemented correctly, it creates a powerful positive force for the economy and society.” underlined.

The minister pointed out that this progress does not only concern her economic efficiencybut it radically changes the relationship between citizens and the state.

“Eliminating unnecessary red tape acts as a catalyst for growth and trust. Citizens don’t just expect strategies – they expect results”he said characteristically.

The digital transition as a European challenge and opportunity

Mr. Pierrakakis underlined that the Greek experience is part of one wider European vision for digital integrationwhich will allow the interconnection of public services of all member states.

“The goal is not to have 27 efficient markets in Europe, but one single and efficient market. We need to become essentially ‘Estonia in all of Europe’, with fully interoperable public services – from tax and customs to pension and social systems.”

He also emphasized that European integration in digital governance is a prerequisite for the sustainability, competitiveness and resilience of the EU in the international environment.

“Success will be measured by how much we contribute to creating a truly single European digital space, where citizens can work, insure and move freely, accessing public services wherever they are.”

Closing it, the minister pointed out that the political systems of Europe must acquire the speed and flexibility of technological progress. “We need to leave behind the institutional ‘software’ of the previous century and move as fast as possible – as technology evolves, or at least as fast as we can. That’s the goal.”