Samaras: Change the memorandum to stop unemployment and recession

In his letter to the EU leaders Mr. Samaras, who is on an open line of communication with the country’s delegation in Brussels, states the need to amend the Memorandum.

In his letter to the heads of EU states and governments, which was published by Brussels, Mr. Samaras clarifies the will of the Greek government to fulfill its obligations under the second agreement to support Greece.

The crucial point is that Mr. Samaras refers to the need for “amendments” to the policies dictated by the Memoranda in order for Greece to implement them and to bring forth results.

The PM was informed of the meeting between Mr. Papoulias and EU president Mr. Rompuy and the talks between them yesterday. Mr. Rompuy said that the main focus of the Summit is not Greece but the situation in Spain and Italy.

In this context, it is open whether there will be an extra Summit in July focusing on Greece, something which will largely depend on whether PM Samaras will be able to travel.

Messages from the PM’s entourage are different. One of his associates leaked that the PM will not be able to travel for 40 days, which was refuted a few hours later by another partner, who said that “this is nonsense, and Mr. Samaras will return very soon”.

In any case, the physicians, who will submit him to a full examination on Saturday, will make the final decision. In this regard, the PM’s presence in the programmatic government policy statements will be indicative. The discussion will begin next Thursday and will conclude with a vote of confidence in the government on Saturday night.

Samaras' letter to the EU leaders:

“As I informed you, unfortunately I can not attend the European Council today because of eye surgery that had to be done. Greece will be represented by the President of the Greek Republic, Karolos Papoulias.

I hereby would like to reassure you that Greece is absolutely determined to fulfill the obligations arising from the recent rescue agreement.

The new Greek government accepts ownership of the stabilization program and is fully committed to the goals, objectives and all key policies of the Program. I will accelerate the implementation of the Program with an emphasis on privatization.

Certainly, there is the question of some necessary changes to the program to check the unprecedented unemployment and stem the devastating recession which Greece has endured for the fifth consecutive year. This way I will also ensure the achievement of all objectives.

I look forward to our meeting, as soon as doctors allow me to travel."