Premier refutes early election rumors

In spite of the speculation about a presidential election, or, perhaps because of it, the PM is attempting to squash rumors. Samaras made the statement during discussions with New Democracy MPs after the inauguration of an exhibition on democracy at the parliament.

The prime minister also expressed optimism about the future of Greece, in a statement marking the 40th anniversary of the return of Democracy to Greece in 1974, after a seven-year military dictatorship.

“Democracy has deep roots in Greece, which are soaked in the struggles and sacrifices of the Greek people. It has nothing to fear. Each day it grows stronger and will continue to do so, because I am optimistic about the future and the Greek people will have to realize that this optimism stems from facts”, he said.

The prime minister said that “the economy will improve further,” adding that stability in Greece is manifold considering that the country is surrounded by major hotbeds of conflict. He also said that the tourism sector, given the fact that the country will be visited by 20 million tourists this year, namely, two tourists for every Greek, “will bring liquidity to the economy and things will improve even more”.

“Therefore, I am really optimistic and I want the Greek people to be aware of this optimism. I mean what I say,” the Prime minister underlined.