The Minister of National Defence Mr. Dimitris Avramopoulos visited today A’ Army, the Hellenic Tactical Air Force, as well as the National Air Operations Centre in Larissa. Mr. Avramopoulos was briefed on the operational capabilities of the respective Formations and Units.
Following the conclusion of the visit, the Minister of National Defence made the following statements:
D. AVRAMOPOULOS: I say and I repeat once more that these difficult times our country is experiencing, with all what is induced by the financial crisis, a different Greece exists and resists; Greece of duty and commitment. Today, with my presence here in Larissa I would like to convey this message to our airmen, as well as to A’ Army and all officers, but I would also like to receive from them a message of resistance, vigor, endurance and determination, that should accompany us at these times, so that our country will find again as soon as possible its course, its orientation, its perspective and its hope. JOURNALIST: Is the issue of eliminating A’ Army and the 110 Combat Wing brought up? Much has been written and heard.
D. AVRAMOPOULOS: Much is being written and heard. I must tell you that since I assumed office in the Ministry of National Defence, the directives I gave were to make a new, complete study for the new structure of the country’s Armed Forces. Consequently, no decision has been made yet. What we should all realise is that our country is at a very particular and special place. Sensitivity, as far as defence, security and integrity matters are concerned, inflict that we all regard with particular attention and sensitiveness our country’s Armed Forces, their planning and, naturally, their effectiveness. JOURNALIST : A comment on yesterday’s meeting between the political leaders and the Prime Minister, and on the time the elections will be held? We have heard of April. D. AVRAMOPOULOS: The ‘Nea Demokratia’ party participates in the coalition government and it does so consciously. Our party has always put national interest before anything else. During these really critical times, it has proved it in practice. The parties supporting the coalition government yesterday reconfirmed their trust and sincere support to this government’s task, which is clear. It has a time limit. What is most important, beyond the time and the life this government will have, is the accomplishment of its mission, which will be the foundation in order for us to continue optimistically, as I said earlier, a new course of restructuring the country and ensuring its future.
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