Attempting to defuse the crisis

Signs of defuse appeared last night, which remains to be confirmed today after a telephone conversation is expected between the Greek PM with the leaders of PASOK and the Democratic Left (DIMAR).

In response to a request from Venizelos and Kouvelis, government sources reported that "the prime minister, who has always sought the political dialogue, will contact via telephone today the political leaders to arrange a meeting in the next few days."

The same sources, however, indicated that as Samaras clarified the issue of ERT has been closed. The communication and the meeting between the three political leaders will seek a specious way to break away from the political deadlock, and not lead the country to elections. Samaras does not back away from his decision for ERT even if it leads to the polls, but also does not want to bear the responsibility.

The other two government partners requested the lifting of the decision to shut down ERT and with the public broadcasting open again, discuss the plan for its restructuring, rationalization and upgrading.

They both argued in favor of the continuation of their governmental cooperation, in order to, as Kouvelis said, complete the government’s task. Venizelos emphasized to the request for updating the programming agreement between the three parties, and both asked for better coordination. Kouvelis also said that a united government requires the agreement of all three parties.

The common stance of the DIMAR and PASOK presidents shifts the matter on Antonis Samaras, who is also called to find a balance point on the problem of ERT.

Given, however, that all three leaders so far remain adamant in their positions and if in the process they are required for a vote of confidence to the government, the possibility of the dissolution of their partnership and recourse on early elections, is still quite possible.