Greece ushered in the new year with vibrant fireworks and street parties in Athens' downtown Syntagma Square and other parts of the country on Sunday night. However, amidst the celebrations, the nation's president and prime minister emphasized the prevailing global challenges in their messages.
President Katerina Sakellaropoulou delivered a solemn new year's message, acknowledging the turmoil in Ukraine and the Middle East. She also expressed her concern regarding the severe fires and floods that wreaked havoc in Greece in 2023, as well as the issue of fan violence.
Despite these somber topics, President Sakellaropoulou also highlighted some positive developments. She mentioned the recent improvements in relations with Turkey and the progress made by the Greek economy. Additionally, she noted that 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of democracy in Greece, following the military dictatorship that spanned from 1967 to 1974.
“In this half-century, Greeks have accomplished a lot, have progressed and have established democratic and liberal institutions. Greek identity has flourished within Europe. Despite the heavy toll, we have overcome even the most existential challenges, including the economic crisis and immediately following the pandemic. This is because we remained steadfast in the fundamental values that trace back to the deep roots of our people. We have affirmed our position among our partners, one that befits our history and makes us proud in the developed world,” she said.
“However, this position is neither static nor immutable. Faced with the challenges and radical changes of our time, just like individuals, states and societies must adapt, must reinvent themselves,” Sakellaropoulou added.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis struck a more upbeat tone, promising better salaries and pensions in the new year on the back of robust economic growth.
He vowed radical reforms in healthcare and education, stressing the need for unity over changes that will “benefit the many” as part of a government strategy he described as “multifaceted modernization.”
“Despite significant challenges, the past year was crucial: it brought Greece an investment-grade rating and placed it at the forefront of growth, with unemployment decreasing and citizens’ income supported and fortified against imported inflation,” said the prime minister.
“The new year, therefore, marks the end of a cycle with moments that were, at times, painful, and serves as the prologue to another era, with better wages, higher pensions, already from the first weeks of the new year; in a homeland with fortified borders and well-equipped defense forces; with the national voice being heard loudly on the diplomatic and geopolitical fronts.”
