9637 - ΕΕΖ and the Prime Minister’s commitment

N. Lygeros
Translated from the Greek by Evi Charitidou

There was certainly a pre-electoral convergence, where systematic preparation to proclaim the EEZ was written down, but each one of us could have been so cautious as to consider that this was simply a diplomatic expression by the trilateral government. However, now the Prime Minister’s statement in the Greek Parliament substantially constitutes a Premier’s commitment, which is not only a written mention in a text, but also a non-diplomatically-styled point. For, selecting the word ‘soon’ – twice used – was not necessary at all. More specifically, the Prime Minister said: “ All these four points may seem concise, but they open new paths in practicing foreign policy. Without questioning traditional foundations and alliances of Greece new forms of local cooperation are sought, emphasis on proclaiming the EEZ is attached; which must be done very soon. Cautiously, but soon”.

Prior to this statement never has there been any Premier saying anything similar to this and, in fact, twice Greece has not delimited the EEZ with Cyprus, even though two Presidents of the latter had made such a suggestion. It was only during the latest elections that there was a relevant official mention by the Greek parties. Thereafter, there has been the first written mention by the Government on the EEZ issue. Now with this commitment on the part of the Premier people like Th. Karyotis, B. Markezinis, E. Konofagos. A. Foskolos and S. Kassinis are vindicated; all of them struggling for so many years now to give the EEZ framework to Greece.

However, we must now move onto the virtual level and check the details to formulate the text of the Greek EEZ proclamation as well as to develop the strategic schemata required by the EEZ delimitations, to pass to the next stages of this opening as soon as possible. Competences should be promptly defined to move towards implementation. For, it is only in this way that we will be able to prove that Greece is passing to a new phase.

This is what not only the Greek people needs but also strategic ventures offering to our homeland new possibilities. Thus, we must continue our work with no further delay owing to traditional bureaucracy. Struggling for EEZ will gain its primary meaning only when the EEZ bill is voted by the Greek Parliament. Combativeness holds by the moment we have a tangible result. Premier’s commitment is significant and must be supported by the rest of the parties, even though they do not partake in the Government. For, the EEZ issue is above parties and a national one. Greece is in need of it; it is high time it became her right.