Athens, 18 June 2007

Journalist: Did you return from the Middle East concerned?

Ms. Bakoyannis: Very. The situation is unsettled. In the Palestinian Territories we are on the verge of civil war. In Lebanon the most recent terrorist attack shows how fragile the peace is. Greece is the European country closest to the region and is seen by everyone to be a reliable and impartial collocutor.

Journalist: Is the government looking at the Burns proposal for direct negotiations with Skopje?

Ms. Bakoyannis: There is no such issue. The process within the framework of the UN and the efforts of Mr. Nimetz are in effect.

Journalist: Does the resolution of the FYROM name issue remain a condition for Skopje’s accession to NATO in early 2008?

Ms. Bakoyannis: Greece actively supports the Euro-Atlantic perspective of our region. We have proved this many times in the past. But we are in a difficult position when one of our neighbouring countries adopts an intransigent stance, indulges in irredentist propaganda and makes provocative moves like the renaming of Skopje’s airport. So we insist that our neighbouring state show the necessary political will so that we can arrive at a mutually acceptable name.

Journalist: Can the Kosovo issue be resolved through unilateral recognition of its independence by the U.S.?

Ms. Bakoyannis: No unilateral action contributes towards ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region. Kosovo’s status is an international issue that requires an international solution. A Security Council resolution is what is needed.

Journalist: If NATO takes on responsibility for developing an anti-missile umbrella in Europe, might Greece host systems of this kind?

Ms. Bakoyannis: Such and issue has not been raised.

Journalist: Mr. N. Burns strongly reiterated the U.S. position against energy dependence on just on country – Russia . . .

Ms. Bakoyannis: We share common pursuits with the U.S. in this sector, such as the security of networks and pipelines, diversification of energy routes, deregulation of energy markets or the use of renewable energy sources. What the government is doing is strengthening our country’s geostrategic position.

Journalist: Mr. G. Alogoskoufis called Mr. Papandreou a ‘political pampered son’, and Mr. K. Mitsotakis described his opposition rhetoric as ‘brothel swearing’. Do you share criticisms of this kind?

Ms. Bakoyannis: Listen, the people are well aware of this. It isn’t New Democracy politicians who are trying to heat up the political climate. PASOK – first through its leader and also as a central political tactic – has for months now been trying to increase polarisation and keep tensions high through totally negative criticism and extreme statements. Apparently, this is the only way it can make up for its substantial lack of a proposal for the country’s future. I haven’t lapsed into swearing and I have not surrendered to the siren song of populism at other, more difficult times. Those who contribute to maintaining a climate of polarisation don’t see that they are sawing through the branch on which the country’s political world is sitting. Forgive me, but I will not take that path.

Journalist: Are you concerned by the five-party Parliament scenario?

Ms. Bakoyannis: I believe in multiple political parties and this prospect is nothing new. What is critical is that Greece needs strong and effective governance. That is the dilemma of the upcoming elections. The country needs strong, stable governments that – on a mandate from the citizens – will be able to promote the necessary structural reforms.

Journalist: The president of the Popular Orthodox Rally (LAOS) has attacked you on a personal level as well . . .

Ms. Bakoyannis: I will not concern myself with Mr. Karatzaferis, who, it seems, is prepared to sacrifice anything on the altar of populism. In any case, some statements can be judged according to who makes them.