In an interview with the German daily Süddeutsche Zeitung, Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias spoke in favor of a solution more political than legal on the issue of German reparations. “The 2+4 Treaty on German reunification is a good historical agreement, but Greece did not participate. The issue will probably be discussed politically rather than legally,” Foreign Minister Kotzias underscored.
It is noted in the interview that Germany was heavily in debt following World War II, but nevertheless received two major loans from the Americans. This enabled Germany to get back on the path of growth. “Do we not have the same rights as the Germans did then? Were the crimes committed by our people greater than those of Dachau and Auschwitz?” asks the Greek Foreign Minister.
“We have to find another path; a growth policy. We cannot continue this neoliberal policy, which destroyed our country, our families and dreams, the future. We need a logical discussion.”
With regard to the issue of reparations, Mr. Kotzias stresses his belief that “paths have to be found for us to discuss specific problems logically with Germany,” and proposes the setting up of a Commission of scientists by the two countries. “We have to find a common denominator.”
Regarding the issue of sanctions, Mr. Kotzias stresses that “we lost markets due to the sanctions. Who has access to these markets? Turkey. And I ask, Why does the EU allow this? The answer is that the issue is complex. But how much help is an answer like that when I have to explain why we can’t sell our apricots, while Turkey, which is booming economically, can?”
Mr. Kotzias describes Chancellor Merkel as a “very logical person who is concerned about the future of Europe. Trust plays a major role in international relations. That is why I hope we will get to know one another and understand one another better. There are many misunderstandings. We have to leave the stereotypes behind.”
March 23, 2015