By Antonis Anzoletou

The national issues were wide open again, with the Greek government having a rich and hot agenda in front of it, with immigration and Greek-Turkish issues at the forefront. From Brussels to Summit no “white smoke” came out. European leaders agreed that immigration policy should be toughened and called on the Commission to submit proposals. Based on European Union figures, only 20% of irregular migrants return to their countries, with the “27” calling for an increase and acceleration of returns. A new legislative framework is needed, as the current one is considered outdated. The climate within the Council was also tense after Germany’s recent decision to reintroduce internal controls in the Schengen area. The investigations carried out between 11 countries showed that there is an aggravation and according to information these discussions will continue. The solution is always difficult since there are positions like the Netherlands and Hungary, which ask for an exception from the common immigration policy.

For the Greek side, two things remain high on the agenda. The agreement with third countries for the refunds needed there Commission to “keep your head down” and work very hard, but also an agreement to guard the border. It is a fact that there is no money on the table beyond the 2 billion euros that have been included in the budget. “The E.U. he wants to do a lot with a little” commented officials in relation to the lack of determination that exists once again. The positive element from the European Council is that the issue of Syria came back to the table.

The second issue to which the government attaches great importance concerns the Greek-Turkish relations with the upcoming meeting Gerapetritis – Fidan on November 8. The appointment in Athens is not necessarily a milestone, as the two foreign ministers may meet again before the High Cooperation Council takes place in January in Ankara. With Turkey insisting on putting all the issues on the table as a “package” it is clear that the difficult issues cannot go forward. For the Greek side, the only difference is the EEZ and this is not going to change. There is no question of discussing the sovereignty and sovereign rights of the country. What will not be left aside is the strengthening of the positive agenda in order to preserve the “calm waters” in the Aegean.