Pavlos Marinakis.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis said Thursday Greece has submitted a request for €5.3 billion in Social Climate Fund resources, for projects supporting vulnerable households and businesses.
The plan, he told a press briefing, includes investments in energy upgrades for buildings, social housing, and public and private transport.
On migration, Marinakis said Greece reached agreements with Germany, the Netherlands, France and Belgium to eliminate return obligations under the new EU Migration and Asylum Pact, to be introduced in June. “So, on June 12 2026 we have zero obligation to accept returns. No obligation whatsoever,” he said.
Marinakis said recognized refugees will retain freedom of movement, while irregular migrants will face stricter measures, including detention or return, aimed at deterring human traffickers.
Referring to remarks by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis regarding the latest Middle East crisis, the government spokesperson reiterated the need for Greece to support Cyprus; an end to attacks on energy infrastructure; and efforts to prevent a new refugee wave in Europe.
He described reports earlier Thursday of missiles intercepted by a Greek Patriot system deployed in Saudi Arabia as a “defensive” and deterrent action, not direct involvement in the conflict, adding that further economic support measures are being prepared. [AMNA]