Galery

1

The European official did not spare the Greek politicians from criticism for their position especially in the first years of the implementation of the memorandum, saying, "We would prefer them to have done what they should have done in connection with the programme instead of opposing it and blaming Brussels". He rejected the view that the severe crisis in Greece is the result of the implementation of the programme. "It is due to the fiscal consolidation that had to take place anyway. I have not met a person in Greece who does not recognize the fact that the country needed this change, whether he agrees with the memorandum or not."

In conclusion, he said that the decision on whether the memorandum will be completed late this year or if it will be extended after it is to be taken in the autumn. "But even if it is completed, this does not mean that the visits and inspections by expert delegations, which will follow the implementation of the reforms, will stop," he said.