There is much to learn from late statesman Constantine Karamanlis in terms of the way he thought politically and managed his government and the country.

He was a fierce critic of all forms of populism and was always open and honest when he addressed the public. He was known for setting ambitious national goals and putting himself on the front line of the battle for their implementation.

Karamanlis never relied on his close political allies in order to govern, but in contrast made use of the public administration and always tried to find the best people, irrespective of their political leanings, to appoint to important positions.

Last but not least, Karamanlis was a practical man who combined vision with professional discipline and method.

We need to think about these qualities today because Constantine Karamanlis, unlike other charismatic politicians, is a leader from a more recent chapter of the country’s history whose decisions are vindicated more and more as time goes by.