Resist the sirens of populism
The next few days will to a large degree determine the future of the country. The recent downgrades have made the eurozone crisis even worse. PSI negotiations will be dramatic and could involve a default. Negotiations with the troika will also be dramatic as Greece has failed to meet most of its commitments. The negotiations between Prime Minister Lucas Papademos and the parties in the crisis coalition will show whether the political system can stand the burden of reforms avoided for decades.
It will be a tough week. It will take a great deal of wisdom and a cool head — above all, a strong resistance to the sirens of populism and the mercenaries who want to see the country?s collapse.
Some steps have been taken. Papademos is quiet but hardworking. New Democracy is showing signs of maturity. But the pressure is immense and the risks for the country are huge. It?s time for responsibility and cooperation.
