We will do our best, said Papademos

Officially handing the premiership over to Lucas Papademos, George Papandreou wished "all the best" to his successor.

"Mr Papademos, you assume the prime minister’s position at a very difficult and critical moment for the country. I think we are all united, most of the Greek people, in this effort so that this government can achieve its goals.

It's for the good of future generations and will ease the heavy burden of the Greek people and continue the great changes that have already started in the best possible way and with the widest possible cooperation. You will have my full support and help."

Papademos pointed out that in recent years Papandreou "made an enormous effort to stabilize the economy and fiscal consolidation, particularly in difficult conditions, and we all thank him for his work. I thank him personally for the confidence he has shown in me. The new coalition government will do its best to address the problems of the country. I believe that with the cooperation of the people it will achieve its objectives."

Immediately after his departure from Maximos Mansion, Papandreou went to the PASOK headquarters at Ippocratous. Just a day after his resignation and just one day before the official end of his four-year term as president of PASOK, he wanted to send a message that he is not leaving the leadership of the largest parliamentary force.
 
A few hours after the formal start of a peculiar "election" period, which has already brought forth the issue of leadership change in PASOK, dozens of members of the national council, youth members, workers at the headquarters of the party and ordinary fans reserved a very warm welcome at the official return of the president at no. 22 Ippokratous str.

He was welcomed at the entrance by party secretary Mihalis Kachrimakis, general director and commander of IKA Rovertos Spyropoulos, members of the national council and tens of party followers.

Immediately after his arrival, Papandreou went to his office on the 6th floor where he met with the secretary of the Socialist International, Luis Ayala. With this appearance, the former prime minister sent a message to those who might be thinking that he has to resign as president of PASOK as well.