Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to advocate for measures to alleviate rising energy costs at the European Council summit in Brussels this Thursday and Friday. As European Union leaders convene to address pressing issues such as economic pressures, energy security, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Mitsotakis aims to push for targeted and temporary support for households and businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, affected by the escalating energy prices linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
In addition to seeking relief from energy costs, Mitsotakis plans to emphasize the need for fiscal stability, enhanced cross-border energy connections, and the completion of the EU’s internal energy market. Greece views the current energy crisis as a reflection of Europe’s competitiveness challenges and underscores the necessity of bolstering energy security while upholding long-term climate commitments.
On the matter of the EU’s forthcoming long-term budget, Greece stands opposed to further cuts in funding for regional development and agriculture. The Greek government argues that new and growing priorities, such as defense, security, and innovation, demand increased resources. Furthermore, Greece is open to exploring new sources of EU revenue, provided they do not impose undue burdens on less-developed economies.
Mitsotakis is also expected to voice support for a merit-based approach to EU enlargement while resisting attempts to link membership negotiations with modifications to the bloc’s decision-making procedures. Migration will be another focal point for Greece, as the country will advocate for stronger protection of the EU’s external borders and the establishment of a common European mechanism to address sudden surges in migration.