With international media outlets expressing concern over the financial developments in Greece, Prime Minister Antonis Samaras appears determined to negotiate with his European partners.
Mr. Samaras is leaving today for Malta and Italy officially to discuss illegal immigration in light of the recent tragedies at Lampedusa, but will also work towards establishing a united front against European demands ahead of the upcoming Summit meeting.
After consulting Vice President Venizelos, the Prime Minister is expected to adopt a hard stance, since there will be no support for new fiscal measures in Parliament.
While Mr. Samaras’ advisors profess that the PM is ready to make bold declarations against troika demands, some have suggested that he is looking for an “honorable compromise” of corrective rather than fiscal measure. It is not yet certain though what the PM has to offer in negotiations with the troika.
In an effort to not appear subservient to the troika, Mr. Samaras will likely focus on how thanks to the sacrifices made by its people, Greece has remained on top of its commitments and agreements – according to the government – and that the creditors and partners must now demonstrate their solidarity in practice.
With ever-increasing demands, the Prime Minister and his cabinet believe that the troika and creditors disregard the efforts and sacrifices made in order to be fulfill financial aid and loan obligations, in order to achieve the much-touted primary surplus.
