The haste with which the spokesman of the German Ministry of Finances – obviously at the orders of Mr. Schäuble – to reject the Greek request for an extension of the agreement is a characteristic example of bad faith and hegemonic attitude. This is a request that Mr. Juncker noted was a “positive sign” which could “pave the way for a reasonable compromise” and even the Vice Chancellor of German Mr. Gabriel, contrary to Mr. Schäuble, argued that it can be “the start of negotiations” and not publicly reject it a priori.
There are obviously problems in completing the negotiations, there are matters to be discussed, but the a priori rejection indicates an obsessive political behavior by the German Finance Minister; more so when Mr. Varoufakis’ letter, which was written to a great extent with the backing of European institutions, accepts almost all of the demands that had been posed in previous talks.
Europe has moved forward through painful negotiations and the constant compromises of conflicting interests. Germany’s role is truly important, but that does not man that its leadership’s views must be enforced everywhere and all the time – more so when they are not unanimous, as Mr. Schäuble’s punitive attitude reflects.
The other European forces at today’s Eurogroup also have a responsibility to achieve the necessary compromise, for the sake of our country and Europe. The Greek government made an important step back from its declared positions. Europe can and must take a small step back in everyone’s interest.
TO VIMA
