Mr Theodorakis met Manfred Weber, Chairman of the Group of the European People’s Party, Guy Verhofstadt, Chairman of the Group of Liberals and Democrats for Europe and Gianni Pittella, President of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats.
On his three-day trip to Strasbourg, leader of To Potami Stavros Theodorakis met the Chairmen of the three largest political groups of the European Parliament.
More specifically, Mr Theodorakis met Manfred Weber, Chairman of the Group of the European People’s Party, Guy Verhofstadt, Chairman of the Group of Liberals and Democrats for Europe and Gianni Pittella, President of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats. In his talks with the European officials, Mr Theodorakis pointed out the effort made by Greek citizens to stand on their feet, after so many years of crisis, while also stressing the role of Europe, in an era when nationalism and populism threaten European accomplishments.
As far the Greek issue and the second review are concerned, Mr Theodorakis, accompanied by MEP Miltos Kyrkos, stated that Greeks struggle, while governments do not even dare to proceed with changes, to the benefit of the majority.
Commenting on the role of the International Monetary Fund, Mr Theodorakis said that, despite the government’s mistakes and the reported delay, the IMF shares responsibility for the dead-end. The IMF has adopted a stance, as if it ignores the Greek and European reality.
Mr Weber stated that what really matters right now, under these international conditions, is to limit the role of fanatics – far-right and far-left movements and forces - that aspire to demolish Europe. Mr Weber estimates that Europe can make it on its own.
Moreover, the leader of To Potami had a talk with Gianni Pittella on the developments concerning the Democratic Party and the potential re-election of Matteo Renzi. Mr Pittella asked to be informed on the action of the centrist forces in Greece, stressing that they must show determination, but also the will to compromise. The two officials expressed their positive view on the decision of Martin Schulz to run for Chancellor.
Finally, Mr Theodorakis had the chance to discuss with Mr Verhofstadt on the positive outcome of the potential victory of Emmanuel Macron. The two officials agreed that the financial crisis, as well as the migration test the cohesion of Europe, pointing out that unity, solidarity and growth -not fear and division - must be the answer to this challenge. “More Europe, not less Europe. This is the remedy,” stated Mr Verhofstadt.
Photo credit: Theodore Manolopoulos
