Greek PM Mitsotakis Commits to Farmer Support Following Tense Athens Meeting

First Direct Talks Held Between Prime Minister and Protesting Farmers

In the wake of high-stakes discussions at the Maximos Mansion in Athens, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector while firmly rejecting illegal roadblocks, coercive tactics, and politically motivated disruptions.

Mitsotakis described the meeting with farmer representatives as "substantive and sincere," marking the start of a constructive dialogue aimed at strengthening Greece's primary production. The talks reviewed existing relief measures, incorporated new proposals, and laid groundwork for a sustainable long-term agricultural strategy.

Key concessions announced include:

• Expanded access to Europe's lowest electricity tariffs for farmers, now extended to those on consistent payment plans for at least one year.
• Elimination of the special excise tax on agricultural diesel, plus exemption from related VAT, to alleviate rising production costs.
• Completion of all 2025 subsidy payments at higher levels than the previous year, with fairer allocation freeing up funds for support to low-margin crops and livestock producers hit by recent animal disease outbreaks.
• Accelerated payouts from the agricultural insurance system (ELGA), including targeted compensation for income losses in plant-based animal feed production affected by the disease.

Despite these steps, Mitsotakis maintained a resolute stance on the ongoing protests. He acknowledged the government's patience in addressing farmers' concerns through dialogue and noted that many demands had already been met. However, he condemned persistent roadblocks by a minority he described as politically driven, which have disrupted society for over 45 days.

"The government has reached the limit of both economic tolerance and societal understanding," Mitsotakis stated, emphasizing zero tolerance for blackmail, illegality, or unreasonable pressure on the broader public. He reiterated that while doors remain open for honest discussion with cooperative groups, the government will not engage with misinformation, populism, or threats.

The prime minister concluded by calling for continued dialogue with those committed to solutions, while signaling that disruptions must end to avoid further escalation.