EIB President Hoyer and Greek Minister Stathakis reaffirm importance of EIB Group's role in supporting Greece's economy

Mr Werner Hoyer, President of the EIB and Greece’s Minister for the Economy, Infrastructure, Shipping and Tourism, Giorgos Stathakis

Greece’s Minister for the Economy, Infrastructure, Shipping and Tourism, Giorgos Stathakis and EIB Group President Werner Hoyer met in Luxembourg today to discuss the EU Bank’s role and operations in Greece.

President Hoyer and Minister Stathakis agreed that the EIB has demonstrated significant support for Greece over recent years and that it continues to be an important asset for the country’s economy going forward.  Since the start of the economic crisis the EIB has provided more than EUR 11 billion for investment in projects and in support for small and medium size enterprises in Greece. President Hoyer confirmed that the EIB remains committed to supporting viable public, private, and PPP (Public-Private Partnerships) projects in the country. President Hoyer and Minister Stathakis discussed the Investment Plan for Europe and its potential for leveraging investment in Greece. Marking a shift from grants to mobilising investment through loans and guarantees, the Plan can spur investment and a renewed drive toward competitiveness.

President Hoyer and Minister Stathakis also discussed the state of play in negotiations between the Greek Government, the Eurogroup, the EU and international financing bodies. Whilst not a party to these negotiations, the EIB Group stands ready to be part of any new arrangements with regard to Greece if called upon by its shareholders, the 28 Member States of the EU.