Greece’s state and political leaders celebrated Easter Sunday in various parts of Greece, making statements which address the current political and economic situation in Greece.
The President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias sent a stern message to Turkey from the island of Skyros, where he celebrated Easter Sunday.
From the island of Hydra, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou stressed that the message of Resurrection amidst the continuing difficult circumstances facing Greece should be turned into a source of strength, solidarity and humanity for the progress of the Greek nation.
Opposition leader Antonis Samaras visited the army’s training centre in Corinth, southern Greece, where he expressed his certainty that the Greeks will overcome the crisis if they remain united. He noted, though, that the country has a long path to go through.
KKE leader Aleka Papariga and SYRIZA head Alexis Tripras preferred to celebrate Easter Sunday in Athens while LAOS President Giorgos Karatzaferis visited Atalanti in central Greece.
Greek president Karolos Papoulias chose to celebrate Easter Sunday with the soldiers serving in the 135 Combat Group of the Greek Air Force based on the Aegean island of Skyros.
Papoulias spoke of Turkey being ‘a rather bad-tempered neighbour’ that has to stop provoking Greece. “Provocations don’t intimidate us,” stressed the President.
Papoulias expressed his respect for the soldiers for being at the forefront of the fight to defend Greece’s sovereign rights. He then went on to reiterate his belief that Greece will overcome its financial problems.
Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou and his family spent the Easter break in Hydra. The Prime Minister sent Easter greetings to all Greeks and underlined that the message of Resurrection has to become a source of strength and joy, solidarity and humanity for all the Greeks.
“Resurrection is associated with hope, joy and spring. Despite the hardships, I know that we will make it. We will make it together and we will build a creative Greece. I wish health, happiness and strength to all. Happy Easter,” stressed Papandreou.
New Democracy leader Antonis Samaras visited a military training centre in Corinth.
Samaras exchanged wishes with the army officers and the recruits and wished them strength.
“Resurrection means ‘fighting for something better.’ But the Greek nation is carrying its own financial cross at a time when the country’s growth model has sunk. The crisis requires solutions, and bold and responsible changes. With the God’s help, we will have both the inspiration and the strength to show the path of hope. Happy Easter to everyone,” said Samaras.