Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 17-05-07

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek opposition parties hail Macron's victory in France

[02] Tsipras has the opportunity to form a new narrative, says U.S. ambassador

[01] Greek opposition parties hail Macron's victory in France

New Democracy leader Kyriakos Mitsotakis congratulated Macron saying his win will usher in a "new era" of realism for France. "I welcome the great victory of Emmanuel Macron. Today starts a new era of realism and hope for France. It is a victory that reflects on all the European forces fighting for freedom, solidarity and reforms that improve the lives of the people. It is a defeat of the forces of demagogy, populism and nationalist isolationism," he said in a statement after the exit polls in France.

"At the same time, it is a message of new political groupings that unite dynamic political trends. But also a success that gives new impetus to the European idea. Europe faces many challenges that we need to tackle with bravery to move forward with peace, stability and growth. Sooner or later, our country's turn will come," he added.

Mitsotakis also tweeted his congratulations and message.

Democratic Left leader Thanasis Theoharopoulos said Macron's win offers relief to Europe but there shouldn't be complacency. "Relief without complacency. Relief for all pro-Europeans, democrats and progressive citizens. But complacency is not allowed. The direct threat of the extreme right has been prevented, but nationalism has not yet been defeated at its root," he said in a statement.

He said Macron's great win is a victory for democracy and Europe, as the centrist pro-European candidate with a social democratic past expressed the demand for change. "Our hope is to move ahead with a progressive and reformist policy, with a change of policies within the EU, in favour of growth and not dogmatic austerity. With progressive reforms, social justice and commitment to European integration," he added.

PASOK leader Fofi Gennimata said Macron's victory offers hope for better days in Europe and a respite to every progressive European."The victory of Emmanuel Macron offers a respite to every progressive European. It is a victory of democracy and hope for better days," she tweeted.

Potami said Macron's win is a victory for the citizens who defend an open democracy and open societies. "The victory of Macron, a young, bold and progressive European who places himself beyond the Right and Left, is a victory of the citizens who defend open democracy and open societies. Emmanuel defended rights and opportunities for all, growth and meritocracy, limits to special interests, unions and party politics, transparency, fairness and free media," the party said.

"This is why we did not hesitate to stand on his side from the beginning, which is something that forces and politicians who declare themselves as progressives didn't do, as they cling to old [political] groupings," it added.

[02] Tsipras has the opportunity to form a new narrative, says U.S. ambassador

"Prime Minister Tsipras now has an opportunity to form a new narrative [...]. Provided the procedure will go ahead and the next disbursement will take place, it's going to be smooth sailing for Greece for about two years," he was quoted as saying.

"The interest of the United States is to see Greece, a NATO ally and member of the Eurozone, emerge from the seven-year cycle of economic crisis and follow a path of sustainable development," he said, adding that the U.S. is very pleased about the news of a deal between Greece and the European institutions. "I am optimistic that we will now see a will see rapid progress towards the Eurogroup on May 22 that will authorize the disbursement of the next tranche," he added.

Pyatt also said he will travel to the United States in June with Economy and Development Minister Dimitri Papadimitriou to "describe the opportunities I see for expanded commercial relations and investments".

Concerning relations with Turkey, he said Greek and American interests converge on the view that the country must remain anchored to Europe.

"I am impressed by my talks with high-ranking Greek officials following the Turkish referendum, for the emphasis they have placed on keeping Turkey anchored to European institutions," he said.

"We want a democratic Turkey, which will respect the criteria of European governance and will be stable. We encourage keeping the channels of communication between Athens and Ankara open," he added.

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