During an investment conference in New York, Greek American businessmen praised Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and the general effort of the government to overcome the crisis.
John P.Calamos, President and CEO of Calamos Investments, one of the 400 richest Americans on the Forbes list who was honored during the investment conference, declared that, “we ascertain that there has been progress in Greece. Personally, I am impressed by the determination of Samaras to proceed with reforms, following the right strategy.”
He also stressed that, “now there are new conditions for Greece and the competitiveness has been increased. An interested investor can take more seriously the prospect to invest in Greece.”
Dean Mitropoulos, Chairman and CEO of Mitropoulos & Company who is also included on Forbes list of the 400 richest Americans, noted that, “Greeks have patience, intelligence and a dynamic spirit that does not let us succumb to deadlocks.”
Dr. Sotirios Vahaviolos, President & CEO of the company NYSE MISTRAS GROUP and member of the Greek American community, stressed that, “now there is homage to Greece; there is respect for Antonis Samaras. The remaining problem is growth. There is interest from investors, but it takes some time. An example is the TAP (Trans Adriatic Pipeline), which will create many jobs throughout Greece.”
Dr. Vahaviolos also replied to a question on taking a more active role with Greek Diaspora. He argued that if Greek Americans do not invest in Greece, if they do not create jobs, they will not play any role. Greece needs jobs. Also, Greek Diaspora should collaborate to convince American companies to invest in Greece, to open branches in Greece and to help develop the country. What’s encouraging is the change in laws, so that a friendlier environment has been created for investors.
Meanwhile, the bureaucracy has been decreased. Some businessmen think that there are no opportunities in Greece. However, he disagrees and that’s why he is an active businessman in Greece for several years. Vahaviolos added that the Greek PM has managed to create safe conditions to invest in Greece. Therefore, Greece offers many choices in various investment areas and creates new prospects with oil and gas.
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