Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-11-12

Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

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

CONTENTS

[01] Reshuffle unlikely as PM sees no point in rapid cabinet turnover

[01] Reshuffle unlikely as PM sees no point in rapid cabinet turnover

"I believe that frequent changes of ministers are unproductive," Karamanlis replied to a reporter's question during a trip to Japan.

The premier, who was touring the historic city of Nikko, said in conversations with Greek reporters that he had no wish to comment on domestic events, despite repeated questions about a possible reshuffle.

Karamanlis' reply on the cabinet was given in an interview to a Japanese journalist earlier in the day, when he also said that a reshuffle "isn't the issue."

Asked about a stalled trip to Ankara, Karamanlis reported that he was unlikely to make the visit by the end of the year, but a date was being sought from early next year.

Turning to the European Union's planned fourth Community Support Framework package of funds, which is key for Greece, the premier said he believed that the likelihood of agreement among EU leaders was greater at a summit scheduled for December in comparison with past talks.

He also forecast that farm subsidies were likely to remain unscathed at the summit.

"I don't think that they will look at the issue of cuts in agricultural subsidies in any depth. There is a very strong alliance in the Union. Even if anyone brings it up, it won't get through," the premier added.

Karamanlis visited the mountain city of Nikko, which included a tour of historic shrines and the mausoleum of famed shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, known as Nikko Toshogu.

Accompanying the prime minister were Deputy Foreign Minister Euripides Stylianidis, whose portfolio is economic diplomacy, and the deputy government spokesman, Evangelos Antonaros.

Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article