A lot is being said lately regarding the Russian embargo on European agricultural products, especially our fruit and vegetables.

The government is being criticized for implemented European sanctions against Russia and some are even asking that Greece repeals those measures.

Irrespective of whether one agrees with the sanctions against Russia or not, most seem to ignore that Greece agreed to these measures due to our position in the European Union.

It is also clear that we could not deny the European sanctions against Russia, particularly after the Malaysian aircraft was shot down, claiming the lives of 298 innocent passengers and crew, nor can be exclude ourselves from the Russian countermeasures of banning the import of fresh vegetables, fruit, fish and livestock products.

But beyond all that it is obvious that we cannot ignore the Greek strategic interest, which stems from our participation in the European Union and Eurozone in particular.

Those who moan and bicker about the fruit and vegetables, demanding Greece follows a different policy, obviously do not expect our European identity to have many more benefits.

To say it straight and clear, without any reservations; Greece’s strategic interests are linked with Europe! That is where the endless funds have been coming from, with agricultural subsidies amount to billions each year, far exceeding the few tens of millions of euros that will be lost due to the Russian sanctions.

In the end of the day, the benefits that Greece enjoys from participating in European institutions far surpass any benefit from transactions with Russia. It should cause concern that Greek politicians do not comprehend the difference and how our strategic interests lie with Europe. Instead, they recite nonsense all day, influencing and urging the people.

In troubled times like these Greece must safeguard its strategic position in Europe. That is non-negotiable and cannot be undermined by anyone.

Those cannot understand, or rather claim to not understand, should have a look at our neighbors and they will understand exactly what we mean…

Antonis Karakousis