National Address from Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on April 13, 2020

My fellow citizens,
Thirty-three days have gone by since my first addresses about the pandemic. I then set a one clear goal: To curb the spread of Coronavirus in the country, while also enduring personal sacrifices. And you made these sacrifices, with a high sense of responsibility. So, all Greeks were protected; mainly though, it was the most vulnerable who were protected. And we gained valuable time, to organize better the National Health System. You all deserve a great thank you. For the trust you showed, but also for your disciplined behavior. We proved, as a people, that we have great strength and perseverance within. We showed the best version of ourselves. And that offers us justifiable satisfaction, if not also pride, because, at the same time, it equips us with the courage to continue the battle.

The war has not been won yet. The cases are decreasing, just as the number of patients in Intensive Care Units. However, even the slightest sense of complacency could easily lead us down a painful road of reversal. In the time that passed, we had and still have, unfortunately, losses. A lot fewer, though, than if we had followed a different policy. Therefore, we will insist on the course we are on: We will always consult with the specialists. Return to normal life will occur gradually and in phases. And only when it is substantiated by scientific facts. Above all, we will continue to protect, for a while, the elderly and those suffering from severe, chronic diseases.

My fellow citizens,

During this unprecedented crisis, so much has changed in rapid speed. We changed. I believe for the better. A new National Health System is already being built. More has happened in five weeks than happened in decades. I met and spoke with the people in the front lines, in the hospitals. I have admired their abilities, their devotion and their will. And have realized that along with the buildings and the technological tools, the perceptions of the role and function of public Health is also modernizing. The reformation of the National Health System does not end here. It is a personal commitment of mine to immediately add hundreds of ICU beds, so that we can quickly arrive to the European average.
The pandemic is subsiding. But it is very possible that it will return in the next winter. And it must find us prepared. Along with the National Health System, though, the public sector at large is taking new form: Its services are digital and spread to serve with greater ease and more speed. Prescriptions and certificates are issued electronically. The government website, https://www.gov.gr/, has now entered our life for good and makes it easier. Employees are getting better acquainted with technology. While, until today, almost 5 million students have participated in digital classrooms with the help of tens of thousands of educators. Many of our business prove to be durable and agile: some pivot their production to products fit for the time, such as antiseptics. While others collaborate with one another to offer hospitals technologically advanced materials, such as 3D-printed masks for doctors.

At the same time, Greek scientists are present at all international research programs fighting against the virus, while the mobilization of society is expressed on many dimensions: With major donations by private citizens. With thousands of citizen volunteers. And with the discipline of all. Because there is one common goal.

My fellow citizens,

With your responsible attitude, you tamed the first wave of Coronavirus. Doctors and nurses, uniformed and Public Safety, all stood at the front line. And by their side, many other fighters of this “new reality”: The employees of food markets. The delivery people delivering ready food. As well as the employees who keep our cities clean all day long. All of them “give life to our lives.” It is a certainly though, that when this crisis is over, we will look at the people filling our supermarket shelves in a different way. We will worry if the young lad on his moped isn’t wearing a helmet. And we will say good day to the men and women who empty the garbage bins in our neighborhoods. They will not be invisible as, perhaps for some, they once were. Many of these people had to wear protective masks for their bright faces to shine. It is the face of decency and solidarity. Of the Greece of tomorrow. And I want to thank them, once again, on behalf of all citizens. The greatest gain, however, from this unprecedented crisis has a name. And it is called Trust. Trust for the State. For the Government. For the fellow citizen! Because, in 50 days, decades’ old myths were destroyed. And new conclusions surfaced that will accompany us for long. It was proven, for example, that the state must first and foremost must be evaluated on the basis of its effectiveness. And that when the state is not a spoil of power, then it is transformed into a real “State.” Not with a partisan destination, but with the intent to care for all. One that assigns the responsibility of critical sectors to the most deserving. This legacy of trust and meritocracy must not leave when the pandemic goes. Because we will need it for the next big challenge: The reorganization of our economy.

The government has faced an unprecedented crisis. And reacted quickly: It has more than 14 billion to support employees and businesses. And it is securing another 10 billion euros in liquidity and additional European funds. Already, 750,000 workers are receiving the 800-euro boost. Nearly 200,000 unemployed people received an extension in their allowance. All tax and insurance obligations have been suspended for more than 500,000 companies. And 85,000 scientists signed up for paid telecommunications programs.

Today, I will announce once more initiative for a special group of the population: There are 155,000 long-term unemployed in our country who will receive an emergency financial support of 400 euro. Careful, though: Until today, we have been intentionally sacrificing a part of our prosperity in order to protect health and social unity. Because the recession of 2020 will be great. But the recovery of 2021 can be even greater. And, unlike in the past, today we have a big advantage: A huge reserve of reliability and seriousness. This national capital, therefore, cannot be wasted on reckless demands and provisional benefits. Because an ongoing war requires reserves. We will share the burdens of the crisis in a fair way, as we have done so far. So that everyone can have a dividend from the development boom that will follow.

At the beginning of this trial, I asked for the power of your trust. And you generously offered it to me. I believe that, with hard work, I reciprocate it every day. I do not forget, however, that this situation will not continue indefinitely. After the crisis, any authority must relinquish the inviolability of need and enhance its accountability. Because no extraordinary condition can put into question democratic sensitivity.

Parliament and all institutions, therefore, operate despite the restrictions. But I will say it again: Greece, after the pandemic must be a renewed Greece! The crisis may wound us. It will have armed us, however, with valuable experience to build a stronger and more modern state. Because, it is exactly these big steps that are being taken now that will serve as our weapons, which can make this temporary test a lever of steady progress. To integrate the expediencies of the moment into the strategic goal of the future. And, so, today’s measure can become the instigators of permanent reform. These are conquests that will help us make a fresh start after the storm. In other words, after the experience of Coronavirus, it is in our hands for “the need of today” to establish the “rebirth of tomorrow”. And the tough present may become a prelude to more optimistic times.

I would like to close with these thoughts,

In our previous communication, I had emphasized that in the battle against Covid-19, April is the most crucial month. Today, I am telling you that this is the most crucial week! A true Μεγάλη Εβδομάδα – Holy Week. In which our Passions and sacrifices are imprinted, this year, in order to overcome the Golgotha (Calvary) of the pandemic and reach Resurrection. We will remember this Easter as the Easter of Love. But, also, of Responsibility. We will go through it in separation from our people. And perhaps far from our homes. And, without pilgrimage to the churches. I know it’s very difficult. It is not our faith that is at stake, but the health of the faithful. In this way, however, we will justify the true message of the great feast. Which is the victory of life over death.

In this way, this Holy Week takes on a special spirituality. It brings us face to face with our fears, but also our expectations. It pushes us to stay humble and think about what is really important in our lives. So, let’s stay home. To meet again, healthy and strong, when the storm is over. We stay home, we come out winners. Because a thread separates victory from destruction: If we do not follow the advice of experts to the end, we can destroy what we have achieved.

On the horizon, we can see the moment when shops and schools will begin to open with careful steps, when the engines of the economy are reheating. And people can meet again on the streets, at work, at sports venues. All of this, however, must be done with caution. With a plan. Always consult our doctors. With new habits. With individual hygiene becoming a way of life. With special care for our elderly. And with any cases detected to be put in immediate isolation, before they become a threat.

I believe it: it is within our grasp to bring the future we desire closer to us. And by being cautious today, we can make tomorrow brighter and more optimistic. We can and we will make it happen!

Happy Resurrection to all!

Read and watch the Prime Minister’s original message in Greek.

Message from Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to the Greek Diaspora in the United States of America regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic

My compatriots in America,

Greece is entering its second month of emergency measures imposed by the pandemic. Together with the illegal immigrant invasion at our border, we also faced the attach from this invisible enemy against our health. The first battler was won. While the second, we are beating every day. Due to quick and bold decision of the government. With the state’s mobilization. And with the responsible behavior by all citizens in cities and villages.

During these difficult times, my thoughts are with my brothers beyond the borders. Greeks wherever they may be – and especially those in the United States, in New York, where there are many outbreaks, and unfortunately, many losses from Covid-19. The Motherland is by your side!

Experience from our country shows us that calm and solidarity bring results. So, stay home, taking care of your personal health and of the most vulnerable. And stand by each other. The Embassy and the consulates will remain open to you. And the diaspora organizations with our Church are one of the most stable networks of support and mutual aid.

Finally, travel mentally, to get the courage of the homeland, decreasing the distance between us: Contact your relatives. Watch Greek shows on television and online. Get to know our new platform, www.greecefromhome.com. Try Greek lessons. And using the memories from your travels here, color the grayness that is temporarily besieging us.

My compatriots,

Your grandparents and parents started off from a small country without means, but with inexhaustible strength and ingenuity. They settled down and succeeded in these new homelands, overcoming all difficulties. This is what, we too, will accomplish.

With responsibility and discipline, soon this trial of the pandemic shall pass. And that moment will come, when we will be healthy and with the fewest possible losses. So that we may meet again, united and strong, in the summer, in our homeland.

Greece has always needed the support of her children. And they, wherever they may live, have always needed her bright sun and blue seas.

I wish you all health and courage,

And we will meet again soon!

Read the Prime Minister’s original message in Greek.

On Monday, March 30, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis appeals to members of the New Democracy party, from Members of Parliament to Ministers and Deputy Ministers, to donate 50% of their salary to a COVID-19 relief fund for the next two months. Following this appeal, Greek government officials have started committing to donating half of their salary for the next two months, including but not limited to, President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou and the Minister of Finance, Yiannis Stournaras.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ Facebook post reads:

“Just as the government was first to mobilize with bold measures against the pandemic, so should the political world of our country stand on the front lines of solidarity.

Thus, with a symbolic initiative, I call on all New Democracy members of Parliament, as well as, ministers and deputy ministers, to donate 50% of their salary, for the next two months, to the battle against Coronavirus. The amount collected will be directed to a special bank account for Covid-19.

We are all equal in the face of this health threat. But in the battle against it, everyone has to offer according to their own abilities. I am sure that this is the choice that the other parties will also follow.”

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ televised address to the nation: a message of hope, strength, unity, and perseverance on Greek Independence Day

Our national holiday, this year, finds our country in an unprecedented state. We are not celebrating on the streets and town squares. But we are honoring it from our homes. With our flags waving high and our thoughts on our ancestor’s battle for Freedom. But conscious of the fact now, that our enemy is the pandemic. Across from it today will be a parade of our force and our unity. On this front, it is our patriotism of responsibility that is being judged. And it is being tested in action, not just in words, in social solidarity. Because we are all equal in this battle.

The care of the State is directed to every citizen. And she or he, in turn, undertakes her or his own share of support. This is the other side of our strength in a battle against a social threat. No one alone. But all from the same position, on the front lines.

Two hundred years ago Greeks claimed their rights and went from being enslaved to being free. From subjects to citizens. Forming a Nation. Founding a state of Democracy and Justice. These are the great values we are being called to vindicate, these days, with a new approach, one of mutual responsibility. Because only united peoples can get through difficult times. No social building can stand erect without the foundation of Health. And no citizens will be well if those around her or him are not well.

Today is a great day, the day of transforming national memory into present responsibility. With discipline, we stand by the State. Just like she fights next to us. Because the same “virtue and boldness” required for our freedom then, is demanded in battle today. The sooner we have small and big victories in confrontations with the Coronavirus, the sooner that this war will be won. We have losses and we will have more. Our economy will also suffer. But our duty is to limit the pain to the minimal. And to share the cost of adjustment in this new economic reality in a just way.

My fellow compatriots, throughout the country,

The chieftains and firefighters of our time are the doctors and nurses in white and green shirts. It is our duty to equip them with munitions that save lives. And to give them the strength and spirit, by following their recommendations with discipline: We do not move, we stay home! This is how we honor our independence day this year.

In 1821 our ancestors united, revolted and freed our country. The generations that followed rebuilt it and grew it. Today, our nation’s children watch over her on other fronts: At our borders, in our hospitals, in our day to day life. To our fellow citizens on the front lines, we say to you in the words of our national poet: “Your strength an ocean, my will a rock.”

The international circumstances, however, are spreading the message of the Greek Revolution beyond our borders. And if ever, the wave of Philhellenism were Paneuropean, today it returns as the object of a new Europe. One that will not be limited to the common overcoming of a health crisis. But, mainly, one that will support the financial rebirth after this crisis. Never has the notion of a United Europe been greater. The time has come to use it to the advantage of all its citizens.

My compatriots,

There is only one battle for me: To keep Greece strong and Greeks healthy. The pandemic will take a toll. It will leave us, though, victors and more mature. Acierated more than ever, so that we may take our country forward. The test we are going through is releasing forces in our people that were previously in lethargy. Through this crisis, our structures are modernizing. Technology travels everywhere, changing the way we work. But also decreasing bureaucracy. Volunteerism is taking root. We ourselves, work together and disciplined. And we are building a relationship of trust with the State, which during times of difficulty, is showing that it can stand up to the challenges of the times. All of this will be our weapons for the next day. The precious tools with which we can rebuild what has been lost. And next year, when this trial is in the past, we will celebrate proudly, our two centuries of freedom.

Be strong and Happy Independence Day to all!

Read and watch the Prime Minister’s address in Greek. 

Images of Greece celebrating and honoring Greek Independence Day in a time of Coronavirus.

Message

From the President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou
To the Greeks abroad, on the occasion of Greek Independence Day of March 25^th

My dear compatriots,

Greek women and Greek men abroad,

It is with great pleasure that I address you today, the Greeks abroad, for the first time since the beginning of my term, on the occasion of the anniversary of our National Holiday. On March 25, 1821, Greeks rebelled in order to expel the Ottoman conqueror, to regain their precious freedom and build a modern, free and democratic state, following the examples of the American and French revolutions.

The contribution of the Greeks of the diaspora in the battle of 1821 was decisive, as the significant centers of Hellenism in terms of the spiritual, political, financial and numerical were all outside of the lands that comprised the first Greek state. The Society of Friends (“Filiki Eteria”) was founded in Odessa and the battle for freedom started in Moldovlachia. Many Greeks abroad participated and sacrificed themselves for this battle, while the Greek communities in Vienna, Paris, Bucharest, Iasi, Budapest, Trieste, Venice and other areas contributed spiritually and materially to the revolution.

The role of the Greeks of the diaspora did not end with the attainment of our freedom. From the first moment, the forces of Greeks worldwide were by the side of the new Greek state. It is not unrelated that most of our nation’s greatest benefactors are from abroad, while the same holds true for many other people who played a pivotal role in the Greece’s public life. And today you worthy continuators of the Greeks of that era, I am certain that you will continue to stand by Greece, just like those us who live inside the borders of the Greek state, must stand by the side of Greeks worldwide.

This need is even greater today when our nation faces intense challenges in a fluid international environment. We must all act with determination, so that we may face the aggressive behavior of neighboring states, which, among others, use desperate people as a tool to undermine our national sovereignty, disregarding human suffering and international law. During such difficult times, we must at the same time preserve the value of Hellenism, like freedom, democracy, equality and human rights.

We will move forward based on these values, united and creative, so that we may secure a prosperous future that fits us all. A future which, inspired by a European vision, connects with a new patriotism, one that does not counter cosmopolitism, but is a prerequisite for it. This is the patriotism that Giorgos Seferis had in mind, when, speaking to the Greeks of Egypt, a historical section of Greeks abroad, of General Makrigianni, mentioned the “a moment when we look and ponder and try to discern the destiny of Hellenism through the veil and beyond the wide turn that the history of the world has made in our times” and he reminded them of the General’s words that “we have this homeland all together, wise and ignorant, and rich and poor, and politicians and soldiers, and even the smallest people.”

My dear compatriots,

The days we are living through bring with them the heavy load of the global spread of the pandemic of coronavirus, a tragic health crisis that requires calm and strict adherence to the measures set forth by those in charge. This year, we will not have any parades and events for our national holiday. Every Greek though, wherever they may be, it is certain will feel national pride and will celebrate this day, not en masse, but in their hearts and soul. This year, our national duty calls on us to show a spirit of collective conscience and individual responsibility. I wish and hope that this battle too, which is not just about Hellenism, but about all humanity, will soon, with the cooperation of the international scientific community, will be won. And that next year, we will celebrate the 200 years since the Revolution of 1821 in the brightest way.

Read the President’s original message in Greek. 

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ televised address to the nation, on Sunday, March 22nd, as he announces the nation’s most restrictive measures yet. 

My fellow citizens,

Just a few moments ago, I instructed the relevant ministers to proceed with the necessary actions, so that as of 6 AM on Monday, March 23rd, so from tomorrow, a ban of any unnecessary movement and movement of citizens across the country will go into effect.

This may be, the final step of an organized Democratic State. Which, though, must be taken in time, so that it is not in vein. Because time is no longer calculated in days, but in hours. And bold and immediate initiatives are demanded of us.

Our Constitution says that the State must “take care of Citizens’ Health” and intervene when the exercise of personal freedoms takes over its constitutional purpose and threatens society.
And when the response of one is proven deficient, then the public interest must be ensured. In the name of the collective good, then, I am proceeding with today’s decision: To protect our Health and all that we have accomplished thus far in this area. I have already informed the President of the Hellenic Republic and the leaders of the opposition parties of my decision.

So, from tomorrow morning, the only ones allowed on the road will be those going to and from their work. Those traveling to get food and medicine. Those visiting a doctor or a person who needs care. And, those exercising alone or in pairs or accompanying their pet. Finally, the one-time transfer to their permanent residence for those in urban centers.

Whoever is outside must have their ID or passport on their person. And the purpose for the movement will be authenticated: Either with a document from the employer – if you are an employee – or with a solemn declaration for the self-employed. Steps have already been taken for the simple and citizen-friendly retrieval of said declarations through the internet or through a text message or even by completing it by hand.

Finally, the authorities responsible for ensuring the implementation of this measure are Greek Police, Municipal Police, the Coast Guard and the Hellenic National Transparency Agency. All violators will receive a 150 Euro fine per violation.

The following are exempt from these measures, obviously members of the government and the Parliament, State employees and all members of Health services, Civil Protection, Security Forces and the Armed Forces. More details will be presented soon by the relevant ministers.

My compatriots,

In Italy, unfortunately, one person is lost every two minutes. And the situation is worsening throughout the world. I owe, therefore, not to allow such a trial to overtake our country. We cannot reach the point where we are choosing who will live and who will die. My choice is only one: the life and health of Greeks!

I thank the vast majority of citizens who understood the threat and stay home. By deserting the streets and squares, we exile danger. And by staying home, we turn them into fortresses for life.
I will not allow, however, a few frivolous individuals to undermine the safety of many. Because the few irresponsible can hurt thousands of responsible citizens. So, as difficult times are reaching this battle, we must close the backdoor to evil. And this is the objective of tomorrow’s movement restrictions.

From the first moment of this health crisis, the government has informed citizens honestly. Has organized the medical infrastructure for the country, moving forward with hiring additional nursing staff, but also in supplies of difficult to find medical equipment. It restructured the Public sector’s services.

And, in just a few days, announced three brave measures for the support of the labor force and businesses. All this, while securing – at the same time – our borders and the borders of Europe. The State has, therefore, shown that it was and is present everywhere.

Now, though, it is the time, more than ever, when the individual identifies with the collective: Now is the time of the citizen!

Coronavirus does not recognize borders or nations, income or social groups. It threatens people, whoever they may be, wherever they may live. Across from him, we are all equal.

Only some are more vulnerable. Grandfathers, grandmothers, our parents. Our fellow citizens with chronic diseases, who in the midst of a crisis, must find refuge in the National Health System. Greeks have not stopped falling ill from other illnesses as well. And we must care for them as well.

Yesterday, Professor Tsiordas, with a lump in his throat, spoke of the responsibility of the young towards their elders. Let this emotional response by a human being who is lifting this immense weight with a clear mind and absolute dignity, be a wake-up call.

Now is the time that we all stand up for ourselves, rewrite a new social contract. With the first commitment to breaking the chain of the virus transmission: each one of us must cease to be a transmission link to the person next to us.

My fellow citizens,

The government is upholding its duties, caring and reaching all corners of our land. However, I will repeat: The greatest weapon against this invisible enemy is our personal behavior: We do not move without cause. We stay home. We shouldn’t offend with our behavior, those who are fighting at our hospitals night and day for our own health.

Because staying at home, staying in our core area, is a highly democratic slogan of collective responsibility. It is not a limitation. But a declaration of respect to all of us.

This is how we will prove that our social fabric is compact and has a conscience. And that together we are carrying the weight of our nation. We will have to enlist all of our reservoirs of strength and patience so that we can overcome this crisis.

I would like to close with the words of American President, Theodore Roosevelt, which are apt, I believe, for those fighting against a threat and being called to do much more in these coming days, “The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause.”

On behalf of the Greek women and the Greek men, I thank them. And I call on all of you to show them our gratitude through our daily stance. Because individual desires must subside to the collective will, the nation falls on all our hands. We are all Greece. Let us protect her, then! So that we can meet tomorrow healthier, stronger and more optimistic.

We do not move. We stay united, united response to the pandemic.

Read and watch the Prime Minister’s address in Greek.