Athens, 14 October 2009
Mr. D. Droutsas: A meeting under the Prime Minister in view of his visit to Cyprus next Monday was just concluded. As you know, this is the Prime Minister’s first official visit, a visit of particular symbolic importance, but also substance, in the spirit of the government’s commitments to stand by the side of Cyprus, by the side of the Cypriot people once again.
In Cyprus, he will of course discuss all issues of common interest to Greece and Cyprus, as well as the issue of effective cooperation, particularly in view of the December European Council. This is a date of particular importance, the date when Turkey’s accession course – its actions thus far – will be evaluated by the European Union. It will be evaluated on whether it has implemented the commitments it has undertaken as a candidate country vis-a-vis the European Union and its member states.
Today, the European Commission will present its yearly progress reports. As you know, the government took office just a few days ago and, from the very outset, we have been working towards improving these progress reports. I think that we achieved this improvement up to a point and regarding the most crucial points for Greece.
I would like to stress that Greece’s will is to promote the European course, the accession course, of all the countries of Southeast Europe in a dynamic manner. Within this framework, Greece – the Greek government – has already given very significant proof of this and the Prime Minister has already put forward a very specific proposal for a target date: 2014.
The prerequisite for this course is that all the countries should prepare themselves efficiently and fulfill all the necessary criteria. With regard to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, in particular, this means finding a solution on the name issue. This is a precondition. Greece’s position on this issue is well-known, it is clear. The national red line is clear and well-known.
With regard to the start of accession negotiations – and I stress this – it is up to, and within the exclusive competency of, the European Union’s member states, so it is also up to Greece.
Thank you.