ΑΤΗΕΝS — Following a year of record-high funding to Greece, the European Investment Bank plans and already implements its next steps in Greece in cooperation with the Greek state, banks and enterprises. "Our next projects will be finalized in the next few days. We intend to announce a record support for pioneer energy efficiency and sustainable urban investments throughout Greece," Christian Kettel Thomsen, vice-president of EIB said in an interview with ANA-MPA.

Referring the EIB's future participation in Greece, Kettel Thomsen -who took over this post in September 2020- said: "You will see EIB's experts working harder and more closely with Greek technical, financial and environmental experts to enhance the impact of future investments supported by EIB from 2021 onwards".

"I can assure you that the wide range of initiatives by EIB and the European Investment Fund (EIF) currently under preparation will allow even bigger support for Greek enterprises, innovation and offering of improved services throughout the country. And the most important of all, it will have an immediate impact on the lives of millions of Greeks," he added.

EIB's vice-president said the bank was eagerly looking forward to coooperate with its Greek partners, under the guidance of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Finance Minister Christos Staikouras, to properly exploit funds from a Recovery Fund in the period 2021-2026. "Our role will be of a strong supporting partner, offering finance and know-how to help Greece accelerate investments that will ensure the improvement of health and education and strengthen economic opportunities and actions on climate," Kettel Thomsen said.