tagged: Charis Pampoukis, Germany, Greece, Greek German Investment bank, Michalis Chryssochoidis, state secretary for Economy and Technology, Stefan Kapfer, visit Athens

Germans to Aid Greeks Become Better People

Posted by keeptalkinggreece in Economy

A German delegation headed by State Secretary for Economy & Technology Stefan Kapfer arrived in Athens to discuss with Greek politicians green investments, privatizations and tourism. Also the establishment of an independent investment bank with the assistance of the KfW was discussed. Greek Minister for Development and Competitiviness Michalis Chryssochoidis told reporters after the meeting that the Germans will bring know-how in the sector of export trade and competitiveness, they will seek funds through the German and the European Investment Bank and that they will draw a map of Greek companies of the development sector.

Kapfer spoke of German interest in energy, tourism and industry in general. He also discussed specific investment projects in Crete and in other regions of the country.

According to Proto Thema, the independent Investment Bank will deal solely with German investment in Greece and thus in the sectors of energy, garbage, tourism and possibly other projects. The news portal stresses exclusive information that the Stefan Kapfer asked the Greek side to combat bureaucracy. Greek officials stated that they were “pleasantly surprised” by the German proposals.

Most likely the Germans were unpleasantly surprised to hear that deputy minister for development Haris Pampoukis submitted his resignation to his close friend, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou after the meeting with them. No, Pamoukis was not offended by possible Germans’ demands as exchange for the aid. The reason for Pampoukis’ resignation was an argument with another minister in Papandreou’s government over the shipping ministry.

The German delegation is scheduled to have a meeting with Greek Finance Minister Evangelos Venizelos later today.

PS. As I have a great idea about a tourism project tailored for the needs of German tourists, I wonder when the Investment Bank will open its gates … and start funding before I go to pension.