Google’s Cloud Investment in Greece to Create 20,000 Jobs by 2030

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis with Google Regional General Manager for Southeast Europe Peggy Antonakou and Google Cloud International President Adaire Fox-Matin. Photo source: @PrimeministerGR

Technology giant Google’s plans to invest 2.2 billion euros in its first cloud services in Greece are expected to create 20,000 new jobs and boost the country’s GDP by 2 billion euros by 2030, said Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday.

Mitsotakis said the new investment which will provide advanced storage and cloud services demonstrates Google’s trust in Greece and added that “digital advancement can become a springboard for progress for the country” which can evolve into a global cloud hub.

The Greek PM spoke at the official announcement by Google Cloud International President Adaire Fox-Matin of the company’s plans to set up a regional cloud service hub in Greece.

Photo source: @PrimeministerGR

The prime minister went on to add that the country was quickly moving forward with GDP growth exceeding the average thanks in large part to a boom in investments and exports and a dynamic reduction in unemployment.

Cloud Region Greece will feature the most advanced technologies, helping Greek businesses in better data management while giving them the chance to maximize their potential in cyber security, said Fox-Matin.

Mitsotakis stressed that attracting investments in cutting-edge sectors was a government priority contributing to national wealth, stopping brain drain and modernizing business activity.

Photo source: @PrimeministerGR

Besides setting up its first cloud region in Greece, Google will also create two centers of excellence for artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability in Thessaloniki and Patras, channeling 1 million euros into innovative actions.

The tech giant also plans to tighten cooperation with the ministries of labor and culture through a series of educational programs and actions aimed at showcasing Greek culture.

Regional General Manager for Southeast Europe Google, Peggy Antonakou commended Greece on achieving remarkable progress in the field of digital transformation. “Alongside the new investment, Google is launching a new page in the Greek market,” she added.