Politics
Covid worries bring more wear and tear for govt, but no momentum for opposition
After a day of celebrations, littered with contributions from foreign governments and dignitaries, to mark Greece’s bicentennial on Thursday, the harsh reality of the country’s present challenges struck on Friday.
UK and EU travel restrictions raise concerns for tourism season
The news that the UK Parliament looks likely to pass new pandemic measures which include a 5,000 pound fine for unnecessary foreign travel until July has caused consternation in Athens, where it was hoped that UK visitors would be among the first and most numerous to take advantage of the reopening of Greek tourism from May 14.
Govt under fire for testing and requisitioning plans as further lockdown easing postponed
On Monday the authorities announced 1,707 new cases of Covid-19, 69 deaths and 681 patients intubated in ICUs. There were 394 new admissions with Covid in hospitals across the country.
Dire conditions at public hospitals fuel opposition attacks on govt competence
The week began as the last one ended, with the national health system under immense pressure from Covid-19 and the government trying to find ways to cope with the crisis while under fire from the opposition.
Athens sees ties with Ankara on more even keel as EU ministers review Borrell report
Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias is due in Brussels this Monday to attend the EU’s General Affairs Council, which is expected to focus on EU-Turkey relations ahead of the European Council this week.
Govt prepares to tweak Covid strategy and labour laws
All eyes were on the government’s decision regarding the relaxation of lockdown measures on Friday, as Covid-19 continued to spread across Greece.
EU digital certificate seen as boost for tourism against backdrop of worsening pandemic
The European Commission’s decision to back the issuance of so-called “Digital Green Certificates” for travel has been welcomed by PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis as a potential boost for Greek tourism.
Relaxation of lockdown considered despite worrying Covid data
Even though the public health system remains under severe pressure due to Covid-19, the government is planning an imminent relaxation of lockdown measures in what seems to be an admission that the Greek public has become fatigued and that this is having political consequences.
Protests and policing shake up political agenda as early election scenarios resurface
The controversy over growing protests and the reaction of the police continued over the three-day weekend which marked the start of Lent in Greece, prompting what seems increasingly like a strategic turning point for the country’s main political parties.
Athens poised for new round of talks with Turkey
The 62nd round of exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey is expected to take place on Tuesday, March 16 in Athens, following Ankara’s hesitance in responding to dates tabled by the Greek side.