Message from Al. Papariga, to the 72nd International Thessaloniki Trade Fair

Esteemed ladies and gentlemen,

The 72nd International Thessaloniki Trade Fair is accompanied by government proclamations regarding a dynamic, competitive Greek economy that develops investment possibilities in southeast Europe and ensures equal opportunities for all its citizens.

These proclamations cannot disguise the class orientation of the country’s development. Nobody doubts the fact that Greece has been one of the most rapidly expanding capitalist economies in the EU during the past decade. But it is precisely this development that is leading to growing class polarisation.

On the one hand, the groups that are listed on the Athens Stock Exchange have in recent years achieved an annual increase in their profits that exceeds 30%, but on the other, exploitation has been stepped up, while the people’s modern needs, which are growing simultaneously, are a long way from being met. During the same period between 2000 and 2006, the loan burden on working households has more than tripled.

Domestic monopoly groups have registered significant successes in their investments amounting to 15 billion euros in the Balkans. At the same time, the ruling class exploits the cheaper labour in other Balkan countries to squeeze the cost of labour in Greece by threatening to move businesses to other countries in southeast Europe.

Within the context of this strategy, a goldmine of state funding has been channelled towards big capital in our country by the governments of Nea Democratia and PASOK, through their development and tax laws, and through the Community Support Frameworks. Also being promoted at accelerating rates are privatisations, the “deregulation” of sectors of strategic importance to the economy, and the imposition of flexible labour relations.

At the same time it should be noted that the position of Greek capitalism in the Balkans today cannot be considered stable. The significant increase of foreign investments in neighbouring Balkan countries and the deterioration of Greece’s balance of trade constitute two characteristic examples. The enlargement of the EU has already increased competitive pressure on Greek products.

As long as this policy of so-called “reforms” continues in order to safeguard the interests of big capital, the Greek people cannot expect better days.

We believe that the working class, the holders of small and medium-sized farms, those who are self-employed, tradesmen and owners of small businesses cannot be hemmed in by common goals with Greece’s economic oligarchy. A comprehensive framework must be put forward of goals and demands that are opposed to the interests of the monopolies and EU policy. Such a framework will place emphasis on satisfying the people’s modern needs, based on the increased wealth that they produce in our country today.

This struggle also signals prospects that are in the interest of the people.

Aleka Papariga
General Secretary of the CC of the KKE