Politics
Greece sets up working group to monitor implications of Brexit
The Greek Foreign Ministry has decided to monitor closely European developments linked to the result of the UK referendum so Athens can be prepared for the developments leading up to, and following, the UK’s possible departure from the EU.
Final list of bidders confirmed ahead of contentious auction for TV permits
The final list of companies that will be competing for the four national TV licenses on the digital network that the government is due to put to tender later this month was announced on Thursday.
Athens watches Turkey-Russia rapprochement with interest
Athens has been closely monitoring Turkey’s attempt to mend fences with Moscow, a process that was highlighted by the visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Russia on Tuesday.
Coalition seeks to quash concerns about complications with Hellenikon development
Reports that the Culture Ministry has launched a bid to categorise almost the entire area of the former Athens airport, known as Hellenikon, as an archaeological site, a move that could jeopardise the bid to redevelop the largely abandoned space, appear to have highlighted SYRIZA’s unpredictably, although the government insists that the impact of the move has been exaggerated.
Tsipras seeks "Club Med" unity as refugee crisis, debt talks move up agenda
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is reportedly trying to line up a meeting of southern European, or “Club Med,” leaders in early September as the Greek government seeks allies in its efforts to secure debt relief, but also as concerns grow about how the refugee crisis will unfold.
Energy cooperation provides platform for Greece and Bulgaria to strengthen ties
Greece and Bulgaria should seek ways to enhance their cooperation and model their relationship on the one between Germany and France, Bulgaria's Prime Minister Boiko Borisov is said to have told his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras when the pair met in Sofia earlier this week.
New Democracy latches on to SYRIZA confusion over law and order
The government’s discomfort at having to take on activists has become increasingly obvious this week, providing New Democracy with ammunition for its attacks on the coalition on the “law and order” front.
Added layer of complexity to Greek-Turkish relations in wake of failed coup
Relations between Greece and Turkey remain finely balanced in the wake of the failed coup in the neighbouring country, with a number of issues adding to the tension between Athens and Ankara.
Political leaders weigh up next moves in August lull
As legislative activity dies down for August, and before the commotion that will undoubtedly accompany the next bailout review in the autumn, leaders’ moves on the domestic political chessboard are attracting attention.
Factionalism rears its head in build-up to SYRIZA's congress
SYRIZA’s many sides, as well as its sometimes complex inner workings, were highlighted this week after police in Thessaloniki cleared three squats in the northern city that were being used to house refugees and migrants.