The Prime Minister Antonis Samaras met with the President of European Parliament Martin Schulz, with who he discussed tackling the Greek debt problem and the upcoming Greek presidency of the EU at the start of 2014.
Mr. Samaras appeared confident that the negotiations with the troika would be complete by the end of December, with Mr. Schulz responding that the Greek debt problem will be addressed as soon as fiscal data is confirmed in spring.
Regarding the EU, Mr. Samaras explained that amongst his goals is to reduce bureaucracy, take initiatives in favor of growth and develop the banking and fiscal union which will help overcome divides such as “north” and “south”, bringing Europeans closer together. Mr. Samaras also mentioned that steps will be taken to address illegal immigration.
The Prime Minister underlined the importance of Greece achieving a primary surplus after six years of recession and maintained that Greece is within its targets. Mr. Samaras claimed that unemployment will be addressed over the next six months. The three “tools” at Mr. Samaras’ disposal for the country’s recover are the EU’s structural funds, reducing unemployment and encouraging growth through exports and investments.
The President of European Parliament responded that all EU members are equal and was impressed by the Greek plans for growth, security, structural changes and immigration. Finally, Mr. Schulz recognized that the fiscal changes necessitated many sacrifices from the Greek people and that Europe will stand by its obligations.
