Despite the minor optimism expressed over the past few days, the progress of negotiations between the government and institutions does not suggest that there will be a positive outcome any time soon. All information and indications from Brussels, where the center of negotiations has moved, suggest that there is still a huge distance that needs to be covered, in order to pave the way for an agreement.
The initial compulsions for a political agreement may have been set aside after the successive impasses, however it seems that even now, at least a section of the government, has not understood what it means to negotiate in a European environment. The lack of a clear and cohesive plan that would be supported, not just by vague promises and reports, influenced and continues to influence the talks between both sides. On the one hand the Finance Minister’s theoretical exercises and media pirouettes blunted Greece’s argument and on the other they undermined the climate of trust between both sides.
After 4 months of meetings and endless talks we have reached a turning point, with the economy in intensive care, the State coffers empty and no horizon in sight. And all of this despite the fact that both sides outright declare that time is running out and that they finally want to bring an end to this cycle of negotiations.
The extension of the uncertainty however will be catastrophic for the economy. Every day that goes by our problems become worse and the money shortage is becoming more apparent, even in basic needs and services. Hospitals, schools and social services are left with so little funding that they cannot even cover their essential, daily needs anymore.
It is therefore more than necessary for the government to reevaluate its negotiation tactics and adapt to the framework defined by European rules. We must exhaust our red lines, bit with a plan and knowledge of the circumstances and commitments that our equal participation in the Eurozone demands. There is no more room for another impasse…
TO VIMA
