Athens News Agency: News in English, 08-04-17

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] PM interviewed on foreign policy issues

[01] PM interviewed on foreign policy issues

Karamanlis pointed out at the same time that it is up to FYROM to show a compromising mood and to meet Greece halfway.

The prime minister further said that whatever irredentist designs, passions and hatred of the past will be abandoned with the complex name with a geographical qualifier that will be valid for all.

In relation to the issue of Cyprus, Karamanlis mentioned that the ultimate goal is the reunification of the island. Greece supports the resumption of intercommunal talks. The resolutions of the UN Security Council are the framework for the creation of a bizonal federal state with two ethnic entities.

The prime minister underlined the willingness of Athens for the full normalisation of relations with Turkey and added that the climate has already been improved over the past years, while in connection with Ankara's accession course he mentioned that it has proceeded with enthusiasm in the effort for its adjustment to European "standards", but this effort has lost its initial momentum.

Lastly, Karamanlis stressed that there are criteria that have to be fulfilled for Turkey to become a member of the European Union, something that is no easy undertaking.

The Greek prime minister's interview is accompanied by a reference to his political origin, and to his uncle Constantine Karamanlis, as well as by a curriculum vitae.

Caption:ANA-MPA file photo of Greek prime minister Costas Karamanlis

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