The Prime Minister Antonis Samaras is banking on support from other European leaders in the upcoming elections for the European Parliament, in order to counter pressure from the troika, which has cast doubt over Greece’s achievements.
While the coalition government and the troika disagree on a number of critical subjects, such as the primary surplus and the financing of the banks, the PM remains optimistic as he estimates that this is in line with the troika’s overall negotiation strategy. The main point of contention appears to be the OECD’s set of proposals, which the troika insist must be implemented, while the coalition government believes are not all necessary.
Even though the Greek side has accepted the need for certain structural changes, the government executives have accused the troika negotiators of dogmatism in their insistence on certain insane demands. The creditor representatives have even disputed the 2013 primary surplus, the extent of which will be confirmed by Eurostat in April, further frustrating the coalition government.
As the troika and Greece appear to be unable to come to an agreement, the PM is hoping that his European partners will intervene and led him support, in order to complete the current round of negotiations as soon as possible. The government wants to come to an agreement by the 10th of March.
The six main points of discussion between the troika and the government are the primary surplus in relation to the need for further measures; taking appropriate legislative initiatives for the sale of Eurobank; industry-related matters, such as ownership of pharmacies and DEI; mass dismissals; the reduction of insurance contribution and finally the second wave of 12,500 suspensions, which coincides with the election campaign period.
Despite the critical nature of these negotiations, a number of implicated Ministers also disagree with PM Samaras’ intentions and have raised their objections, such as in the case of the fresh milk debate and the Ministry of Agricultural Development.
