Greece and the EU at the crossroads

by Vasilis Giavris (Lawyer & Political Scientist)

Today and the days that will immediately follow are of paramount importance to Greece and its citizens. The Greek Government is today called upon to enter into crucial discussions with its European partners about the existing bailout agreement and future tranches of payments. As Diaspora Greeks we wish the government all the best and every success. However, the government must be reminded that whilst they are trying to negotiate a better deal (which we hope they achieve) they must not forget that Greece’s place must always be in the Eurozone and within the European family - this cannot be jeopardised. The great Hellene and statesman, Eleftherios Venizelos, showed the diplomatic way many decades ago noting that true triumph will be achieved when vision and desire are balanced with diplomatic nous and realism and when the Europeans are convinced that their interests and the interests of Greece can and should coincide. Good luck Greece!