Politics
Coalition and New Democracy at odds over anti-government protests
The government distanced itself on Thursday from comments made by Education Minister Nikos Fylis in which he suggested plans to hold next week protests in Athens and Thessaloniki against the government are at the “outer edge of what is permissible” under the Greek constitution.
Greece and Albania seek path to resolving stack of differences
The foreign ministers of Greece and Albania, who met in Tirana, on Monday agreed a “road map” to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries.
Potential changes to constitution and electoral law move onto main agenda
The government looks set to present its proposals regarding changes to the Greek constitution in the coming weeks, spokeswoman Olga Gerovasili suggested on Tuesday.
Coalition lines up draft legislation with aim of shifting debate and mood
The government is hoping Monday will mark the beginning of its attempt to improve its ratings after a difficult few months during its efforts to conclude the programme review.
Greece passes bailout-related amendments, hopes for loan disbursal in days
Having passed the amendments requested by the institutions so the programme review can be completed, the government is looking forward to getting its hands on the much-needed 7.5-billion-euro tranche.
Camp conditions and fragile EU-Turkey agreement risks for Greece in refugee crisis
The ongoing challenges of dealing with the refugee crisis were brought back into sharp focus on Wednesday night when several people were injured at the Moria camp on Lesvos following fights and a fire.
Beleaguered coalition makes quick attempt to dampen offshore controversy
Following an all-round negative reaction to a provision that appeared to relax the restrictions on politicians and public officials being involved in offshore firms, the government attempted on Wednesday to restore the damage done to its reputation by making an amendment to the legislation passed last month.
Linking of ex-PM with centre-left role highlights inertia, not momentum
Rumours have resurfaced regarding former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis stepping forward to spearhead the revival of Greece’s centre-left but they seem to be a confirmation of the difficulties local social democrats are having rather than any sign that momentum could be building.
Putin visit highlights potential, but also limitations, of Greece-Russia ties
There was much enthusiasm in Athens about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit on Friday and Saturday, which highlighted the potential for closer ties between Greece and Russia but also the limitations facing their relationship.
Reshuffle speculation mounts as offshore law sparks new political row
SYRIZA’s credibility with its more traditional supporters is likely to be tested further by claims over the weekend that the government passed under the cover of the recent multi-bill legislation that allows MPs, ministers and other state officials to be involved in offshore companies.