We had an interesting discussion, yesterday, in a very positive atmosphere. I believe that we all understand the need to talk about the future of Europe. Because we have all reached our conclusions and we have become wiser since the crisis we faced during the previous period and the difficulties we confronted in order to overcome it. And even though we have overcome them, to a large extent, we did not respond, I believe, as effectively in terms of defending our values.
I think we all realize the need for brave breakthroughs in the institutional framework. Of course, there are different views. And these different views must be linked together and we have to find a common ground. The fact, however, that we all understand the need to move fast in this dialogue, making brave decisions until 2019, it is a positive one.
It is, also, another positive fact that everyone now realizes the need, Europe to have a strong institutional framework to be able to rely on its own feet.
What impressed me was that even representatives of countries, who considered it inconceivable to have a support program in Europe without the presence of the International Monetary Fund, yesterday spoke confidently about the need, Europe to create its own similar institutions so that it will not be necessary to turn to and invite foreign institutions to support our own needs. If Europe wishes to play a new global role, this can only happen if it is able to solve its own problems.
From now on, we decided on a dialogue process, which I believe will not only remain in the dialogue, but it will bare results.
Today, however, we are discussing about the future of Europe, because the dialogue on the digital economy, new technologies, is the future. And I believe that the accessibility of all citizens to the digital age, the accessibility to new technologies, ultimately, is not only a matter of progress but is a matter of democracy and equality.
Our government has taken very important steps to fill the large gap. Because the truth is that the previous governments did not seriously pursuit new technologies nor to cover the need to enter the digital age rapidly. We did not only create a separate ministry, but we have given all of our attention to this, so that the resources available are worthwhile. Because, unfortunately, billions of euros have been lost from Community funds, without the creation of infrastructure. We are running fast to cover the distance and we believe that our goal, as the slogan says «to bring tomorrow to all citizens today” is an objective that we can achieve. And it will be very important for the country, but also for all citizens, that we will be able to cover the distance and I am optimistic that we will succeed.
Journalist: Will there be a need to change the treaty in order to bring the reforms or can we make it on our own?
PRIME MINISTER: I think we can find solutions to important institutional issues within the framework of the Treaties. After all, when we open the window to more democratic scrutiny, we are identical to the spirit of the Treaties, we do not contravene the spirit of the Treaties. When we make decisions behind closed doors, I believe that we are in breach with the spirit of the Treaties. Therefore, I believe we can find solutions within the existing institutional framework.
JOURNALIST: Another question about Brexit. Do you think there will be effective progress in the following weeks, in the next period or not?
PRIME MINISTER: This is an issue that will be of special concern to us in the next few years. Negotiations will be substantial and intensive. I believe that we will be able to find the best possible breakthroughs for all sides.
