Athens , 30 March 2007

Journalist: How are Greek-German relations?

Ms. D. Bakoyannis: The bilateral relations of our countries are excellent. Greece and Germany are reliable and active partners in the international community. We are also linked by excellent economic and trade relations. Germany is Greece’s most important trade partner. We also have important cultural ties. Over 380,000 Greeks live in Germany. Personally, I’m very enthusiastic about the fact that our countries are such close partners. I went to a German school and to a German university. Germany has a very special place in my heart.

Journalist: What European issues are most important to Greece during the German Presidency?

Ms. D. Bakoyannis: Germany, Portugal and Slovenia – in close cooperation with the European Union – drew up an 18-month programme for the their three consecutive Presidencies. Reform and the Constitution process of course are the most important issues of the Presidencies; perhaps the greatest challenge on the agenda. Naturally, revision of the Lisbon strategy, climate change and energy policy are also important issues. But EU reform and the Constitution process are the most urgent issues. We no longer have the luxury of time.

Journalist: What is Athens’ stance on the continuation of the European Constitutional Treaty process?

Ms. D. Bakoyannis: Given the internal and external challenges being faced by the EU, we need more and not less Europe. The EU must win back the trust of its citizens. Although the rejection of the Constitution in the French and Dutch referenda must be borne in mind, we mustn’t forget that 18 of the 27 EU member states, including Greece, have ratified the Treaty. This means that two thirds of the member states of the EU are in favour of this.

We will make every effort to help the German and the following Presidencies promote the European endeavour in as effective and European a manner as possible.

Journalist: How are the accession negotiations with Turkey going, as Greece sees it?

Mr. D. Bakoyannis: The fact that Greece supported Turkey’s EU candidacy was a surprise for many. We support the idea of a European neighbourhood. This strategy concerns the whole of Southeast Europe, including Turkey. We believe that this will bring about peace, security and prosperity.

Of course, support for Turkey does not mean unconditional support. The country must comply fully with its contractual obligations, which have been set out in the negotiating framework. If Turkey implements the necessary reforms, satisfies the necessary criteria, and fully implements the Protocols with all EU member states, Turkey should join the EU as a full member. Full compliance with its contractual obligations must lead to full accession. We hope that this will be the course followed by EU-Turkish relations.