Hatzidakis: We move on the international stage with international law as our compass

Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, in an interview with SKAI radio on Thursday, said that “Greece has a strategic partnership with the United States and at the same time is an integral member of the European Union. The traditional relationship between the two sides of the Atlantic is beginning to change. I wish the pieces could be put back together, but it will be difficult. This makes the crossword puzzle of our foreign policy more complex, underlines the need for us to be very careful, and highlights the added value of a serious and effective government at all levels — certainly in foreign policy and defence.”

Regarding international developments and the EU–U.S. relationship, he said: “We move forward,” he added, “on the international stage with international law as our compass. And we do not ignore the fact that in stormy seas you must sail with the strongest possible vessel and protect yourself as much as you can.”

On agricultural issues, in reference to Wednesday's discussion in Parliament on setting up a cross-party committee, the Deputy Prime Minister said it is an opportunity to record views, invite experts, and arrive at a body of proposals that will be useful for the path ahead. “The same,” he stressed, “should be done for the new Lyceum and the National Diploma, which was an idea proposed by (main opposition) PASOK. Everyone should contribute to shaping a framework that will be good for our children.”

“The effort has difficulties, but we cannot simply point out problems and remain inactive. In my political career I have dealt with various reforms. They don’t come easily—many say ‘don’t do it, there is political cost.’ I’m not saying I’ve been infallible, but with inertia and public relations we get nowhere,” he emphasised.

Finally, regarding the government plan for 2026 that was presented this week, Hatzidakis highlighted as most important the new Code for Local Government, which he said clarifies things completely; the new Lyceum, which will move forward after a national dialogue; and the bill on the “deep state” that he himself will submit, which addresses “stories of everyday insanity,” in the public sector, as he characteristically noted.