Greek-German threat to new tensions pose bailout deal
POLITICAL grumblings in Greece and Germany cast doubt over prospects of a successful bailout agreement yesterday, marring the relief from an austerity deal passed by Greece’s MPs on Sunday.
Despite parliament’s endorsement, the main party leaders must sign a pledge that they will stand by the measures if victorious in upcoming elections – one of several potential banana skins.
In Germany the mood remains cynical over whether the Greeks will deliver meaningful reforms and cuts.
“Now we need to wait and see what comes after the legislation,” economy minister and deputy Prime Minister Philipp Roesler said. “We have taken one step in the right direction but we are still far from the goal.”
His colleague Wolfgang Schaeuble has warned: “Greek promises aren’t enough for us anymore.”
Doubts have emerged that conservative leader Antonis Samaras may refuse to submit a written pledge. Samaras, who has been accused of criticising austerity measures as an electioneering tactic, appeared to suggest that Greece will seek to renegotiate the deal.
He urged fellow MPs to support the deal “so that we can have the possibility tomorrow to negotiate and change the policy that is being imposed upon us today”.
Yesterday a government spokesman, Pantelis Kapsis, attempted to reassure observers by insisting that the party leaders would sign a pledge.
Kapsis added that elections would be held in April, following the assumed resolution of a second bailout package to Greece in March.