The national goal of recovering the investment grade combined with the need for a strong representation of the country internationally impose political stability over a four-year horizon. Greece needs a clear perspective on its course and clear solutions in its leadership”, underlined Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in his televised message in which he refers to the reason of major national importance for which he calls for the dissolution of the Parliament and the announcement of elections on May 21.

Analytically:

“My fellow citizens,

I have just delivered to the President of the Hellenic Republic the Act of the Council of Ministers by which I officially propose the dissolution of the Parliament and the announcement of national elections on Sunday, May 21. With the substantial completion, that is, of our first government term, as I had committed from the beginning and as is actually happening.

You are well aware of the successive external crises that our country went through and overcame during these years: first, the immigration invasions on the Evros. Then, the global pandemic. Later, the war in Ukraine. The energy boom and international precision. And, every day, the national challenges of an unpredictable neighbor like Turkey.

Against all this, our economy and society stood firm. And not only. Because with prudent management, the state supported workers and businesses. Reducing, at the same time, 50 taxes and contributions. Increasing, for the first time after 12 years, pensions. And raising the basic salary from 650 to 780 euros.

In the same period, nearly 300,000 new jobs were created and our national economy upgraded 12 times, so that the country is now very close to regaining investment grade. Development which, in turn, will mean cheaper borrowing for the Hellenic Republic, for businesses and for our households.

This national goal, combined with the need for a strong representation of the country internationally, impose political stability over a four-year horizon. That is why it is a matter of extreme importance, according to article 41 of the Constitution. Because Greece needs a clear perspective on its course and clear solutions in its leadership.

Greek women, Greeks,

I am sure that we all understand the importance of the moments, as our country is, from the tail, already a protagonist in Europe. It presents a dynamic growth rate but also the largest reduction in unemployment and public debt on the continent. Recording, at the same time, continuous records in investments, exports and income from its tourism.

Our society pays lower taxes and ENFIA. The Solidarity Levy has been abolished. As, essentially, Parental Allowances became free. The weakest are strengthened. And, after the increases in the current, the state is constantly raising ramparts in the imported accuracy. In other words, Greece responds to international challenges and conquers national claims.

In 4 years, despite the difficulties, a lot happened. But much more remains to be done. I know that, despite the positive steps, wages in our country still remain low. Public health still has wounds to heal. Our state must become more efficient. Our young people need to find more care. These, exactly, will be our priorities in our new term.

Greece must also establish itself as a geostrategic and energy power. Shielding its borders from immigration and any other danger. And strengthening her voice, which can now be heard everywhere: in the American Congress, in Brussels and in all major capitals. Believe me, I am well aware of the difficulties as well as the successes we have had in this field.

The above acquire special importance in an uncertain and unstable planet. Difficulties may seem behind us, but I assure you: there will be no shortage of difficulties. Consequently, political stability becomes a national necessity and the trajectory of progress the only way for the motherland. So a decisive criterion for our vote tomorrow.

my fellow citizens,

I am sharing with you my thoughts on today’s institutional process. With the honesty that I have been talking to you for 4 years. And with a clear conscience that I remained faithful to my duty. Without hiding behind the bad moments, which should become less and less. And by insisting on the good ones, we must do more of them.

In July 2019 I did not promise miracles but a plan and hard work, with specific commitments which in 2023 are now a tangible reality. So that, today, I feel more experienced and more confident. Because I know the problems better. Mostly, though, I know the potential of the place better. The ones that arm us all with a new self-confidence.

So, marching towards the elections, I look you in the eyes and declare myself optimistic about tomorrow. We just need to stay united. Away from the lies, mud and empty slogans that will besiege us again. And recognizing how crucial the May 21 ballot is. To keep moving forward together. Steady, Bold and Ahead!