New PM lays out key priorities in first cabinet meeting
New Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Wednesday presented his government’s key priorities, including measures to tackle the country’s humanitarian crisis, restarting the economy and clashing with vested interests.
Addressing the first cabinet meeting since winning a national election on Sunday, the leftist premier said he would negotiate with Greece’s lenders over the 240 billion euro bailout without any “catastrophic” clashes.
“Our priority is to support the economy, to help it get going again,” Tsipras said. “We are ready to negotiate with our partners in order to reduce debt and find a fair and viable solution,” he added.
Tsipras said the new government – a coalition between leftist SYRIZA and right-wing Independent Greeks driven by an anti-bailout agenda – would seek to fight corruption and enforce a fair tax system.
“We are not here to enjoy privileges and power. We want to change the way in which power is exercised,” Tsipras told his ministers while pledging a daily briefing for journalists.
