Samaras: We must implement the memorandum to bring recovery

 

Before that, Germany will have to pass the lending program of the Greek economy through its parliament and release the loan tranches. Also, Berlin and the IMF need to overcome the differences between them for the long-term sustainability of the Greek debt. As the IMF threatens to withdraw from the Greek program, Germany is invited to participate in ensuring the sustainability of the economic cost while on the path to elections.

 

Samaras also has to restore the balance within the government, especially concerning the DIMAR objections. Yesterday he had a conversation with Kouvelis following the recent statements by Justice minister Antonis Roupakiotis, who criticized the Finance ministry about the multi-bill provisions brought against lawyers in order to serve the interests of insurance companies and banks. This annoyed the prime minister, who called Fotis Kouvelis; he in turn forced his minister to withdraw. But Roupakiotis’ persistence raises a broader question about government cohesion and brings back the issue of the reshuffle raised by Venizelos, who reportedly wants to become deputy prime minister.

 

However Kouvelis does not want to join the government in the role of the vice president and this creates problems in the understanding between the three leaders. The distance between Samaras and Kouvelis is also evident from the PM's intention to repeal Ragousis’ law on granting citizenship. The decision prompted DIMAR’s strong reaction. Kouvelis had voted in favor of Ragousis’ law and agreed with Samaras to amend its provisions, but with radical changes. Finally, it seems that the government will stick to the original agreement and the issue will be resolved.

 

What is most important for Samaras is to create conditions of economic recovery by attracting investments. So, he is planning trips to Qatar, China and Russia since as he has publicly stated, he will not wait for investments to appear but he will pursue them.