Editorial: Sirens

It is not the first time that the government is attempting to communicate a false reality. It is a “domestic reality” that constantly contradicts the international reality, which is depicted by European officials, most recently Valdis Dombrovskis, the vice-president of the European Commission in charge of financial stability.

In an exclusive statement to Ta Nea, Dombrovskis conveyed a message to the Greek government that it must proceed extremely rapidly with the fourth bailout evaluation.

He stressed the need for Athens to implement structural reforms and meet fiscal targets after the end of the bailout programme, in order to regain the trust of the markets.

A host of recent messages from creditors are not merely a warning. They reveal their concern that the government, in order to serve its electoral objectives, will violate the terms of the agreements that it has signed during its three years in power.

It is not only foreigners that are concerned. The main opposition party and all those who do not subscribe to the “domestic reality” share the same concerns, which are based on the fact that a return to normalcy, which will give the Greek economy and Greek citizens a respite, can be torn to shreds at any moment.

The danger is always present.
 
Geographically, Argentina, which a few days ago solicited IMF assistance once again, is far away. Yet, the mentality of its political class is very familiar, and its propensity to surrender to the sirens of populism is very close to home.