Schaeuble calls for respect for Greeks, says others not to blame for Greek problems
German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said on Friday that it was important to show respect for “what is being endured” by Greek citizens, following nearly four years of austerity measures, but stressed that the problems are due to the shortcomings of several decades and that neither Germany nor the European Union are to blame for them.
“Greece has made great progress,” Schaeble said in comments to German public television ARD. “If Greeks continue on this road, there are serious possibilities that they will succeed,” he said. “We should show respect to the Greek people for what is being endured,” he added. The German minister also called on Greeks “not to be misled by irresponsible politicians” but did not elaborate.
Schaeuble also referred to an increase in tourist arrivals to Greece and to the importance of boosting growth.
Asked about the possibility of a third loan package to Greece, the minister said, ” I don’t know.” “For the time being, the Greek government says that it can make it alone and that it can secure access to the markets,” he said, referring to the stated intention by the government to attempt a small bond issue in the coming days or weeks.
