Papandreou at Symi Symposium

Criticizing the media
George Papandreou also strongly criticized media for comments concerning cocktails and the atmosphere at the Symi Symposium, for depreciation of the conference and trying to create myths based on a single photo. “Some, for years now, have been trying to discredit this meeting. They're not interested in what we are discussing. They do not care about whether Greece can and should become a focus of debate on the ethical imperatives in global society. They might even fear the importance of ideas and opinions filed by participants,” said Mr Papandreou.
It only takes a story that wants to convince people that we were here, having a good time, exchanging compliments, eating sushi and drinking cocktails. Is it even relevant if we were even here? If we set foot on the island? Nothing. Creating impressions is enough. Providing an image of supposedly luxurious living. A single picture is sufficient to build a myth. "

The nefarious role of New Democracy
Referring to the crisis, Mr Papandreou cast responsibilities on the governments of New Democracy and the patronage system: "Greece had the help of its partners. So, we entered into an adjustment program, known as the Memorandum. What were the underlying reasons? The criminal financial management by the governments of New Democracy and the chronic problems of state patronage.
Today in the country, conservativism, on the left and right, is trying to avoid any discussion about these issues. Not only because of their responsibilities, as many believe, but because they do not want a reversal of the patronage system, and even more so progressive approach to this reversal. Thus, it always moves the focus of interest elsewhere. It always blames something else, not the real reasons that led us to the crisis. "

His personal role
Mr Papandreou answered persistent rumors about the role it wishes to play in the political landscape saying: “I can't hide that this is also my personal worry. I would like to contribute, in any way, in this direction. I do not care for chairs, or positions of authority, if they do not meet this imperative.
For some, it makes me vulnerable, for others it is my strength. I have chosen to follow this path, the path of meeting every citizen who has shared this agony. That does not submit to the impression cultivated by prevailing perceptions, nor follows the norms that reproduce the misfortune that holds the country hostage to the past. "
Echoing the famous slogan of Barack Obama “yes we can,” George Papandreou ended his speech by saying "We Can" and addressing young people, he said:
"Speaking to you young people, with whom we have the pleasure of being this year, I want to invite you to become heralds of a message to Greek society: the obligation to become individually and together, the force of change in the country.
To overcome barren distinctions, to believe again in our abilities, and to strengthen the principles, values​​, ideas, and together wage the battle for the big challenges of our time. We can.”