Coming out of the ERT radio station, after the conclusion of the debate, the president of SYRIZA, Alexis Tsipras, made statements to the journalists, in a more relaxed style, referring to what preceded.

Reporters: How long did it end?

Tsipras: The match ended 2-0. The Champions League. I don’t know here, the citizens will judge. What I understand is that all citizens realize that the discussion of political leaders – the debate – is a benefit for the Republic. And I hope that some people understood their mistake for not wanting a debate to take place in 2019 and the mistake for not wanting a debate to take place in 2023, as it should be done, between the two contenders for first place in the elections ahead of us. I think that this debate has been beneficial and would be even more beneficial for the Republic and the citizens if it had even looser terms. To be able to exchange some questions, to have a follow up.

I recall that in 2015 there was a discussion between the 6 political leaders and also a discussion between me and the Leader of the ND, Mr. Meimarakis. I remember that in 2009 there was a debate between the 6 – I participated in that debate – but also between Mr. Kostas Karamanlis who was then Prime Minister and Mr. Giorgos Papandreou, who was then Leader of the Official Opposition. But also earlier between Kostas Karamanlis and Kostas Simitis. So I believe that this is only a benefit for the Republic. Citizens understand it. And I hope that Mr. Mitsotakis has realized his mistake as he did not want a debate – and it was neither of the many, nor of the two in 2019 – and he does not want a civilized debate today, which takes place all over Europe between the two.

Journalists: Does Mr. Koutsoumba’s not everyone is the same show you that this ground is getting a little smoother?

Tsipras: There is a shift in reality and realism. Citizens understand this. But let’s leave the politics for now, we chatted for 3 hours so people can draw their own conclusions.

Journalists: On the part of Mr. Androulakis, did you see a shift? What would you ask him?

Tsipras: Don’t make me say what I would do if the terms were different. I tried, even in these very tight conditions, to cut a bit of the 1.5 minutes I had, to ask some questions. To make the dialogue livelier. It’s a pity that the inter-party committee did not decide that this possibility exists. I believe the citizens would benefit.

Journalists: Mr. Mitsotakis already talked about second elections, what do you have to say about that?

Tsipras: Let us not underestimate the popular verdict. The world, the citizens, the Greek people will go to vote to produce a Government in these elections. And I think it will be possible for the first to shape the conditions for the formation of a Government. So let’s not prejudge that there will be second elections. It is disrespectful to the Greek people who will go to vote. I believe that there are great chances that the Government will give (note this ballot box).

Reporters: Did you get any closer?

Tsipras: You were closer (note the seats) anyway. At least we sat next to each other. It’s a first step.

Journalists: During the breaks, what did you say, President?

Tsipras: Okay, there was a civilized atmosphere. We didn’t talk politics during breaks. There was the possibility to exchange a couple of conversations.

Reporters: We were told that you told him to have a telefight between the two of you.

Tsipras: To whom of all?

Journalists: To Mr. Mitsotakis.

Tsipras: I told Mr. Mitsotakis that his commitment for the next elections would have much more value, importance, if it was also a commitment that would refer to this electoral contest. Because we should not underestimate the process of popular verdict. I believe he is wrong to deny it. Citizens would benefit much more. Parallel monologues are of no use. I think it would be very useful for everyone, for the Republic above all, to become a real European country and not be afraid of dialogue.