As part of the plan, Microsoft intents to build new data centres that will establish a Microsoft Cloud region in the country, adding Greece to the world’s largest cloud infrastructure footprint and delivering access to low-latency cloud services.
To support citizens in both professional and personal ambitions, the tech giants also plan to skill approximately 100,000 people in Greece in digital technologies by 2025.
“Today’s commitment to the people and businesses of Greece will position the country among the digital leaders of Europe,” said Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
“A Microsoft data centre region provides a competitive advantage to our digital economy. At the same time, it is a long-term investment and a vote of confidence in our country’s potential.
“The cloud is transforming every industry and sector. The investment in skilling 100,000 citizens will empower today and tomorrow’s Greek workforce.”
Microsoft President Brad Smith made the announcement at the New Acropolis Museum alongside Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece Prime Minister, and Theodosis Michalopoulos, General Manager of Microsoft Greece, Cyprus and Malta.
“By a substantial margin, this is the largest investment Microsoft has made in Greece in the 28 years we have been operating here,” said Brad Smith, President, Microsoft.
“In part, this reflects confidence that our world-leading data centre technology can help enable innovation and growth across Greece’s economy.
“In addition, this large investment reflects our optimism about Greece’s future, its forward-leaning government, and the country’s ongoing economic recovery.”
The Greece data centre region will join Microsoft’s global footprint of cloud regions, now totalling 63 regions announced, with Microsoft Azure available in over 140 countries.
“Microsoft has a rich 28-year history in Greece with a growing ecosystem of 3,000 partners and customers, including start-ups, enterprises and NGOs,” said Theodosis Michalopoulos, General Manager of Microsoft Greece Cyprus and Malta.
“Today, with plans for Microsoft’s first data centre region in the country and the holistic ‘GR for GRowth’ plan, we are building on this work, levelling up our contribution to the country’s economy.
“Our commitment is to be a technology ally in driving growth, now and for the generations to come for our country.”
