D. AVRAMOPOULOS: I briefed the President of the Republic on the Armed Forces in general, on how important their role is at these difficult times in our wider region, and not only there.
You know that the Armed Forces exist for a certain purpose: to ensure our country’s independence and integrity.
On the other hand, though, their readiness and battle-worthiness enables them to be always at the service of the international legitimacy and international law.
The financial situation has not affected the battle-worthiness of the Armed Forces. And this, at a great extent, is due to the courage of the army. The personnel of the Armed Forces have a strong sense of their national duty.
Although the pressure, as far as financial measures are concerned, is tight, our defence system is one of the best in Europe. And since the state – and this is our concern and duty- manages to keep our defence system at its current level, then, in fact, their mission can be fulfilled successfully and Greek people can feel safe, above all.
REPORTER: I want to ask you the following question. I don’t know whether you agree or not with the theory that there are two extremes, but I would like to know your opinion on this debate that has been initiated and also on whether there are grounds for Golden Dawn to be outlawed following the latest incidents.
D. AVRAMOPOULOS: Over the last months, the incidents, culminated by the crime committed in Keratsini, send us considerably disquieting messages. Our constitutional order, our democracy, our social peace, our national unity are jeopardized. These must be ensured at any cost and I believe that every political force ought to raise an obstacle against this theat.
Our country faces difficult times. At this time, we all ought to defend what the Greek people have conquered over the years, and primarily the Hellenic Republic itself and the constitutional order, and all this under conditions of national unity, unanimity and, definitely, the necessary social peace.
In our history we lived particularly dire and tragic moments, whenever we did not follow this path.
Our generation is obliged to stand up and not allow anything to threaten our Democracy, our national unity and social cohesion.
REPORTER: Do you consider that SYRIZA lacks constitutionality?
D. AVRAMOPOULOS: No.