Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece has made a compelling call to the electorate to participate in the forthcoming European elections, highlighting their critical role in shaping Greece’s and Europe’s future.
In an interview with the Macedonia newspaper in Thessaloniki, mr. Mitsotakis stressed the importance of the June 9th elections, saying they were “pivotal” in affecting the country’s European Parliament as well as its influence in domestic politics.
By not voting, Mr. Mitsotakis warned, not only will New Democracy be harmed but the democratic process itself.
Reflecting on his recent Ankara visit, the prime minister said his talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were “fruitful,” advancing bilateral rapprochement on multiple fronts.
He also touched upon the Greek government’s stance on Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama’s pre-election speech, asserting that such democratic expressions pose no threat to Greece.
Mr. Mitsotakis addressed the actions of North Macedonia’s new leadership, underscoring the necessity of adhering to the Prespa Agreement and constitutional obligations for the country’s European integration.
The Prime Minister criticized those offering oversimplified solutions to intricate issues and those who exploit nationalistic sentiments for personal gain. He also discussed infrastructure developments in Thessaloniki, including the metro, the Flyover, and the Thessaloniki International Fair’s revamp.
Mr. Mitsotakis articulated his vision for establishing a new “normality” that caters to the everyday needs of Greek and Turkish citizens, while also addressing the significant matter of demarcating the continental shelf and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
On the subject of Greek-Albanian tensions and the case of Fredi Beleri, the detained Mayor of Himara and European Parliament candidate, Mr. Mitsotakis condemned Albania’s actions as a breach of the Rule of Law. He said the case impacted Albania’s road to European Union accession, which hinges on the respect for the rights of the Greek Minority and adherence to European standards.