2026
Strategic Insights from the Meeting with Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis
Summary
On January 12, 2026, members of the PIGI Business Platform attended a high-level policy meeting in Athens with Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis.
The discussion focused on Greece’s geopolitical positioning, economic diplomacy, regional security, energy investments, export strategy, and international business expansion. The Minister emphasized that Greece is entering a period of increased geopolitical importance and economic consolidation, creating new opportunities for Greek businesses and internationally oriented SMEs.
For PIGI members, the meeting highlighted important opportunities in exports, renewable energy, infrastructure, technology, and cross-border partnerships.
Greece’s Strategic Position in a Changing Global Environment
During the meeting held in Athens, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis emphasized that modern governance must focus on serving citizens and supporting economic development rather than creating institutional limitations.
According to the Minister, the international order established after World War II is undergoing major structural changes. In this increasingly unpredictable environment, Greece has emerged as a strategically important country due to its geographical position connecting the Balkans, Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, and Black Sea regions.
Foreign Policy and International Alliances
The Minister described Greek foreign policy as being based on:
- Realism
- Patriotism
- Empathy
He highlighted the strong strategic relationship between Greece and the United States, continued cooperation with Israel, and constructive relations with Italy.
Regarding Turkey, the Minister stated that despite structural disagreements, Greece continues to maintain dialogue and economic cooperation channels while protecting its national interests.
Security Challenges and Regional Risks
The discussion also addressed the growing geopolitical risks affecting the region, including:
- The war in Ukraine
- Instability in the Middle East
- Iran-related tensions
- China’s increasing global influence
- Migration pressures from Africa
The Minister stressed that national security today depends on multilayered alliances, active diplomacy, and strategic international partnerships.
Economic Diplomacy and Business Opportunities
One of the key topics for PIGI members was Greece’s economic diplomacy strategy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is strengthening its role in trade promotion, export support, and international business development. The government plans to organize regular business missions to strategic markets while improving export-credit mechanisms and investment guarantee systems.
Greek companies are increasingly recognized internationally as reliable and institutional business partners.
For SMEs and entrepreneurs, the coming years may create significant opportunities in:
- Export development
- International partnerships
- Innovation and technology
- Renewable energy projects
- EU-funded initiatives
Energy Investments and Regional Connectivity
Greece is also positioning itself as a regional energy hub through major projects including:
- Renewable energy investments
- The Greece–Cyprus–Israel electricity interconnection
- Energy corridors connecting Africa and Europe through Greece
The Minister emphasized that investments by major American energy companies also represent geopolitical confidence in Greece’s strategic future.
Conclusion
The meeting demonstrated that Greece is strengthening its political, diplomatic, and economic influence in a rapidly changing international environment.
For PIGI members, this evolving landscape presents important opportunities for international growth, innovation, exports, and strategic investment partnerships.
2026
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Workshop Successfully Held at the Olympus Youth Center
Summary
Pigi KoinSEp successfully organized an introductory-level Artificial Intelligence workshop for university students with the participation of more than 40 attendees.
The workshop was conducted at the Olympus Youth Center by three expert volunteers from the Pigi KoinSEp community. The event aimed to introduce young participants to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and the growing impact of AI across education, business, and daily life.
The workshop created an interactive learning environment where students had the opportunity to explore the future potential of AI and gain practical insights from experienced professionals.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Workshop
Pigi KoinSEp successfully hosted an “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence” workshop at the Olympus Youth Center, bringing together more than 40 university students interested in emerging technologies and digital innovation.
The workshop was organized and delivered by three expert volunteers from the Pigi KoinSEp community, each bringing valuable professional knowledge and practical experience in the field of artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
Throughout the workshop, participants were introduced to:
- The fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence
- Machine learning and automation concepts
- Everyday applications of AI technologies
- The impact of AI on business, education, and society
- Future career opportunities in technology-driven sectors
The event was designed as an accessible and beginner-friendly learning experience, encouraging students from different academic backgrounds to explore AI technologies with curiosity and confidence.
In addition to theoretical discussions, the workshop included interactive sessions, practical examples, and open discussions that allowed participants to engage directly with the speakers and ask questions about real-world AI applications.
The strong participation and enthusiasm demonstrated by the students highlighted the growing interest among young people in digital skills, innovation, and future-oriented technologies.
As Pigi KoinSEp, we remain committed to supporting youth development, lifelong learning, digital inclusion, and innovation-focused educational initiatives through community-based activities and volunteer expertise.
We sincerely thank our volunteer trainers and all participating students for contributing to the success of this inspiring and productive event.
2026
Successful Completion of the General Accounting and Business Obligations Seminar
Summary
On December 11, the PIGI Business Platform successfully organized the “General Accounting and Business Obligations Seminar,” bringing together members both physically at the association headquarters and online via Google Meet.
The seminar provided valuable insights into current accounting practices, financial management, and business obligations relevant to entrepreneurs and SMEs. The PIGI Business Platform extends its sincere gratitude to all speakers, organizers, and participants who contributed to the success of this important educational event.
General Accounting and Business Obligations Seminar
The PIGI Business Platform successfully concluded its “General Accounting and Business Obligations Seminar,” held on December 11 with the participation of members from various sectors of the business community.
The seminar focused on current accounting procedures, business compliance requirements, financial responsibilities, and practical guidance for entrepreneurs and small businesses operating in today’s dynamic economic environment.
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the organization and success of this valuable event.
Special thanks are extended to:
- Ilias Michailidis from Veritas Consultants, for delivering an insightful and highly informative presentation enriched by his professional expertise and experience.
- Kutlu Ersoy, for taking the initiative and leadership in organizing this important seminar.
- Engin Biçer, for carefully preparing the seminar facilities at the association headquarters and ensuring a comfortable environment for in-person participants.
We also sincerely thank our valued members who attended physically and demonstrated the spirit of unity and solidarity within the PIGI community:
- İrfan Sarı
- Mehmet Kaba
- Bülent Deveci
- Mahmut Kılıç
- Mustafa Çelçok
In addition, we extend our gratitude to all members who joined online via Google Meet and contributed to the richness and productivity of the seminar through their participation and engagement.
As the PIGI Business Platform, we remain committed to supporting continuous learning, professional development, and stronger cooperation among entrepreneurs and business professionals.
We look forward to organizing many more productive and valuable events together in the future.
2025
Pavlos Geroulanos on Greece’s Triple Crisis and the Strategic Importance of Small Businesses
Summary
In a recent policy discussion, Pavlos Geroulanos addressed what he described as Greece’s “triple crisis”: institutional instability, structural economic inequality, and geopolitical uncertainty.
The speech strongly emphasized the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurship, and social cohesion as key drivers for Greece’s long-term recovery and democratic resilience.
According to Geroulanos, Greece’s future depends on building a more inclusive economic model capable of supporting productive businesses, restoring institutional trust, and reducing inequalities created by the current system.
The Importance of Small Businesses
At the center of the discussion, Pavlos Geroulanos highlighted his strong belief in the value of small businesses and entrepreneurship.
He argued that small enterprises are often more adaptable, innovative, and effective than large corporate structures. Entrepreneurship, according to the speaker, should not be viewed only as an economic activity but also as a social and democratic force that strengthens communities and resilience.
Greece’s Triple Crisis
The speech focused on three interconnected crises currently affecting Greece.
1. Reputation and Entrepreneurship Crisis
The first challenge concerns the country’s negative business environment and the broader perception surrounding entrepreneurship in Greece.
The speaker argued that entrepreneurs operating successfully under such difficult conditions demonstrate exceptional resilience and adaptability.
2. Structural Economic Crisis
The second challenge relates to economic inequality and weaknesses within the current economic model.
Concerns were raised regarding:
- Non-performing loans
- Unequal wealth distribution
- Limited circulation of investment capital into the real economy
- The inability of many social groups to benefit from economic growth
According to the discussion, while significant investments have entered Greece in recent years, large parts of society still remain excluded from the resulting prosperity.
3. Geopolitical and Foreign Relations Challenges
The third crisis concerns Greece’s geopolitical position and international relations.
Although Greece remains an important member of the European Union and Western alliances, shifting global dynamics and regional instability continue to create strategic uncertainty.
The speech also emphasized concerns regarding excessive dependency on specific geopolitical alignments while regional power balances continue to evolve.
Institutional Trust and Democratic Stability
One of the most important themes of the discussion was institutional functionality and public trust.
The speaker argued that when citizens lose confidence in political institutions and democratic processes, governments face increasing difficulties in implementing legitimate and effective crisis solutions.
This creates a cycle where institutional distrust further weakens political and economic stability.
The Need for a Comprehensive Social and Economic Program
The speech concluded with a call for a broader social and political strategy capable of addressing Greece’s structural problems.
According to the speaker, future policy priorities should include:
- Supporting productive SMEs
- Reducing economic inequality
- Strengthening institutional trust
- Expanding opportunities for younger entrepreneurs
- Building a more socially inclusive economic model
Conclusion
The discussion presented a critical but constructive perspective on Greece’s current institutional, economic, and geopolitical challenges.
At the same time, it emphasized that supporting innovative small businesses and creating a more inclusive development strategy could become the foundation for Greece’s long-term stability, competitiveness, and democratic resilience.