ATHENS, February 15 (Itar-Tass) — Greek President Karolos Papoulias said the economic crisis in the country is a European problem.
In an exclusive interview with Itar-Tass on Wednesday, Papoulias said, “Of course, the crisis in Greece is not a purely Greek phenomenon. The crisis also had an impact on other European countries to a greater or lesser extent.”
Papoulias stressed that the Greek authorities exerted maximum effort in the economic field. “Unfortunately, these measures are very painful for the poorest and low-income population. In the past Greeks went through considerable difficulties. I’m optimistic about our efforts to solve problems. It is natural that Europe should show solidarity because Greece is an inalienable part of the European family. One cannot abandon a member of the family in trouble because all family can suffer,” the Greek president said.
He recognises that European states have different interests in resolving the debt crisis in Greece. “It is obvious that any party seeks to meet its interests. I realise the apprehensions by Mrs. Merkel. But I believe that everyone should understand: the Greek problem is also a European problem. The south of Europe is one of the most important areas of the continent. One cannot allow it to knock down. That is why I believe that by responding to the efforts of the Greek people, the European Union provides financial support to Greece to help it overcome the situation,” Papoulias said.