Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis is scheduled to meet Eurogroup President Paschal Donohoe at Maximos Mansion at 10 a.m. on Holy Wednesday, during a period of heightened geopolitical and economic tension.
The meeting comes as the European Union prepares for crucial negotiations over a new trade agreement with the United States.
Officials are hopeful that the deal will be mutually beneficial for both sides, especially in a time of global uncertainty.
At noon, Mr. Mitsotakis will chair a meeting of the Government Council for National Security (KYSEA) at Maximos Mansion. During this session, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias is expected to propose the acquisition of a fourth Belharra-class frigate, further enhancing Greece’s naval defense capabilities amid increasing regional challenges.
Later in the afternoon, at 5 p.m., Mr. Mitsotakis will present Greece’s National Strategy for the Prevention and Response to Juvenile Violence and Delinquency.
The announcement will also include the rollout of the “Kids Wallet,” a new digital initiative designed to empower and protect minors.
The busy schedule highlights the government’s efforts to address national security, economic diplomacy, and social cohesion ahead of the Orthodox Easter holiday, while navigating growing pressures both domestically and internationally.
Pasok’s disciplinary committee has suspended the party membership of former minister Katerina Batzeli for one year following controversial public remarks deemed harmful to the party’s image and unity.
The decision, approved by an 8-3 vote, effectively bars Ms. Batzeli from participating in internal party bodies or standing as a candidate in upcoming party elections, including the anticipated Pasok congress.
The party emphasized that while internal disagreements and diverse views are protected and considered constructive, “character attacks under the guise of political criticism” are not acceptable, especially when directed at the party’s leadership.
Ms. Batzeli, a former agriculture minister and long-time party member, allegedly made public statements that distorted the image of the party during a critical time, according to Pasok. Despite multiple opportunities to retract her comments during television appearances, she did not do so.
“This moment calls for unity,” the party said in a statement, stressing the need for a “single, coherent message” as Pasok continues its campaign against the ruling New Democracy party.
“Ms. Batzeli chose instead to create a misleading public perception of the party.”
The suspension was announced by disciplinary committee Chair Nana Vryoni.
It takes effect immediately and includes Ms. Batzeli’s removal from all party positions.
Haris Doukas, a senior party figure and former mayoral candidate in Athens, criticized the move.
“Pasok is a democratic party. Free expression is non-negotiable and a founding principle. Suspensions, even when mistakes are made, have never solved political problems,” Mr. Doukas said, calling instead for unity and trust built through collective processes.
Ms. Batzeli appeared before the disciplinary committee and denied that her comments were directed at the party president. In an initial reaction, she attributed her referral to “the success of the Truth Team,” a group she suggested influenced party opinion against her.
“There was no reason for this referral. I requested full acquittal,” said Ms. Batzeli.
“There is no insult or accusation against the president. I await the outcome. The secretary believed the statement was about the wiretapping scandal. This was all a fabrication.”
Pasok has not publicly detailed the exact content of the comments that led to the suspension.