Th. Pangalos: “No issue of leadership change in PASOK”

Pangalos spoke about the political developments in the country, as well as the new government and the referendum in particular. Concerning the latter, he said it was wrong for two reasons: “firstly because the question was difficult. How can you ask the people if the PSI has to be implemented?”, adding that referenda must ask simple and comprehensible questions. Secondly, “referenda are considered ‘anathema’ in the EU.”

Speaking of the newly appointed premier of Greece, Pangalos said he is a widely accepted personality and brings about hope for the future, which is a very positive aspect. He has long experience in dealing with EU issues because of his past tenure as ECB vice-president and easy access to decision making centres.”

He underlined that “political leaders fulfilled their duties conscientiously. Each party serves the country’s best interests in its own way.”

Commenting on the Petsalnikos candidacy, he said that “it was not outrageous but reasonable”, clarifying up that “I am not a political party leader and I do not gloat about becoming one.”

When asked if there is an issue of leadership change in PASOK he appeared negative, saying that for the moment there isn’t. “Papandreou will remain the head of the PASOK party as no issue of him being succeeded by another person has cropped up.”