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In this way, there will be development of real business rather than business a la Greece, fed by the government. According to the professor, in practice, it was not allowed for independent companies to develop in the country. "On the contrary, they were forced to settle and become part of the system."

Of course, manufactured goods must comply with global quality standards, which will make them more competitive and preferred on the markets. "I think there is nothing I could add about the Internet and new technologies. We all know their strength and contribution to the exchange of information and to direct communication in any part of the world."

Finally, George Bitros said, "globalization may have high and low tides, but surely, it will continue to permeate throughout the world. The best thing we can do is accept it, adapt to the needs and make the above forces suitable for the Greek conditions, to begin to produce goods for exports and to solve our economic problems."

He also referred to criticism of globalization. "Reproaches that it increases poverty and inequality are based on only one study conducted by the World Bank for a period of only three years. I think this period is too short for making such global conclusions. The argument that it reduces national sovereignty is also ungrounded. If we are talking about the economy-yes, but state boundaries can exist as long as the citizens of democratic countries want them. Globalization has nothing to do with democracy. Democracy needs free economy. The opposite is not necessary and the typical example is China.

To the argument that globalization promotes consumption I will simply answer that mortality among men was reduced through consumption. Today, the average age in the western world has increased from 48 to 74 years thanks to medications, etc. Yes, there are some problems with consumption but we cannot forget its positive features and point out only the negative ones.

Another reproach is that globalization reduces natural resources. I do not think this is so. In the 1970s, the price of one ton of copper was higher than it is today. This is because communication companies are already not using it. They are using the new technology of optical fibres. In terms of globalization, endangered resources open opportunities for inventors to create new products that will decrease  prices."

The professor admitted that the argument that globalization threatens the environment is grounded, but it should not be generalized. "Yes, there are cases where companies do not operate as they should. But here, I would mention something else. For example, air pollution in London is lower than in Bangkok. Developed countries have the technology and resources to fight pollution.

The next argument is that globalization threatens diversity and the cultural heritage of nations. I think it depends on how we ourselves believe in our own culture. In practice, globalization means export of cultural goods and services through tourism.

I find nothing in all these arguments to justify this fear that has been instilled in Greeks against globalization, Europe, etc. The problems we are talking about today are  of our own creation. In 1998, I had even published an article to warn against accepting the Euro, before implementing all the necessary structural changes. Today's crisis is the result of everything that has not been done over the years. What we should do is stop shooting at our feet every day and do what is necessary. Otherwise, nothing good awaits us."