German magazine Spiegel published an extensive article titled “Greece, the deceptive calm of August” – referring to the immediate challenges faced by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. “In Greek politics there is a golden rule: nothing must disturb the calm of mid-August,” noted the article.
“The Parliament in Athens is closed for holidays and people enjoy the sun and sea, those of course who can afford to do so (…). When this tranquility is interrupted, it is usually not a good sign.”
Furthermore, the article added that when it was reported that Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras was returning early from his vacation, the media in Greece went on a frenzy, speculating about what this might mean for the country. “Could the refugee crisis be reaching its climax?” asked the German magazine?
Since March 2016, when the EU signed an agreement with Turkey on the migration and refugee issue, the number of refugees arriving in Greece has reduced significantly. However, Ankara has threatened this agreement on several occasions over the last days, if the Turkish visa issue is not resolved.
“The country’s economy is also not offering any consolation to Tsipras,” noted the German magazine, adding that after the slight growth in 2014, Greece is once again facing a recession. The clash between the new leftist government and the country’s creditors nearly led Greece to bankruptcy.
The country is only receiving money through tourism and according to Spiegel, a single industry cannot reverse the deteriorating situation.
In conclusion, Spiegel notes that based on the ongoing rumors Tsipras might have to result to early elections in the fall despite the government claims that the elections will take place in the autumn of 2019.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
