Economou: Greece's response to Turkey was without ulterior motives

Yiannis Economou

Government spokesperson Yiannis Economou stressed during the daily briefing on Monday that Greece's response to the earthquake tragedy in Turkey was "without ulterior motives".

"The prime minister has decided that the general elections will be held at the end of the government's four-year term and we are sticking to this. A few weeks forward or back do not change the essence of the commitment," he first said in speaking to journalists..

"Until the elections are declared, the government will do its job so that the citizens can cope with the pressures of exogenous crises. When the prime minister decides on the date of the elections, you will be the first to know," Economou added.

In terms of the Greek support sent to quake-stricken Turkey, Economou said: "Greece's response was self-evident and without any ulterior motive, it was a humanitarian duty. Greece will continue to be there, as there is a huge need for medical supplies and clothing."

"Our stance proves what we have been saying for a long time, which is that we have nothing to divide with the Turkish people," the spokesperson continued.

"Our only difference with Turkey can be settled on the basis of International Law and our country continues to be a factor of stability and peace but also unyielding in the defence of our national rights," he added.

Asked about the possibility of a meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Economou noted that Greece is always open to developments of this kind.

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