New Democracy leader Antonis Samaras has issued an optimistic message for 2010, making it clear that his government will support as well as oppose the government’s policies when the situation demands it.

He ignored comments by ND’s honorary president and former Prime Minister Constantine Mitsotakis who suggested that a national emergency government should be formed by PASOK to push through economic reforms. “At crucial times, many fear the future but do not let fear cast a shadow over your hearts,” said Samaras in his New Year’s message. “The light will begin to shine in 2010 and there is hope that a new dawn is not far away.”

Samaras is in the process of reshaping the conservative party since taking over its leadership in November.

“New Democracy will show a new face in the new year,” said Samaras. “It will inspire with its proposals, it will stop all that needs to be stopped, it will support everything that needs to be supported.”

Samaras did not comment on the proposals made by Mitsotakis, the father of his defeated opponent Dora Bakoyannis, which suggested that PASOK should take bolder measures and call on experienced figures to help revive the country’s economy.

“[European Central Bank Vice President] Lucas Papademos should be asked to take over the central management of the economy, [former PASOK MP and minister] Alekos Papadopoulos should take over public finances,” said Mitsotakis.

“These two along with Finance Minister Giorgos Papaconstantinou should form a mini-cabinet which [former Prime Minister] Costas Simitis should be asked to chair as a minister without portfolio.”