«Today, Greece celebrates 47 years of democratic progress. It thus adds yet another page to the longest chapter of political stability in its history. And, as this year’s Democracy Day coincides with two centuries of the nation’s freedom and 40 years of its European experience, our homeland marks three milestones along the difficult path it has traveled. But they also serve as three guiding principles for the path we must follow today and tomorrow,» emphasizes Kyriakos Mitsotakis in his message marking the Anniversary of the Restoration of Democracy.
The prime minister emphasizes: «July 24 is dedicated to the leaders of the struggle against the dictatorship. At the same time, however, it is also embedded in the collective consciousness as a constant source of reflection. As a space for reflection on how to build a better life in the present. And as a catalyst for new endeavors toward a more complete democracy and an even more open society. It is, therefore, an anniversary with timely messages whose content is constantly renewed by the demands of the times. In the many years that have passed since July 1974, it was the unity of the Greek people, their commitment to institutions, the sound decisions made by those in leadership, and the responsible actions of the rank and file that moved the country forward. Conversely, when these principles were violated, the country stagnated. We therefore have a duty to bring them back to the forefront by drawing on the essence of the past and the dynamism of the present! This is the path Greece has chosen for the past two years.».
Kyriakos Mitsotakis adds that «today, our democracy is stronger than ever» and notes: «It has justly cast out its dark enemies. It has stood firm against the waves of populism and remained faithful to the principles of parliamentarianism, dialogue, and rights. At the same time, it shuts the door on any national threat through its strong defense and active diplomacy. It keeps the door wide open, however, to enhancing the country’s international role and to the development and cohesion of its society.».
He goes on to refer to the pandemic: «After 47 years, the combination of freedom and individual responsibility has been reaffirmed as a winning principle in the months-long battle against the pandemic. Now, however, it calls on us to transform it into a collective approach to emerging from it. And, as personal behavior emerges as a catalyst for societal success, the message is clear: A responsible citizen is a vaccinated citizen! In the 21st century, we cannot afford to question science or the data from billions of people who have already proven the safety of vaccines. So when experts warn that the coronavirus now affects only the unvaccinated, there is no room for double standards. Rumors are not ideology. And false fears belong in false worlds. Rejecting the vaccine, therefore, means rejecting the health and progress of citizens.
The State is exhausting every possibility of persuasion. It must, however, plan for the future. It must respect the minority, without, however, depriving the vast majority of their freedoms. And it must uphold the Constitution, which entrusts everyone with the duty of social and national solidarity. Only then will the end of the pandemic mark the beginning of a new era of prosperity. The prosperity that the «Greece 2.0» Plan will bring, by increasing employment and the country’s public wealth.».
In closing his message, the prime minister emphasizes: «United as Greeks, we welcome July 24 once again this year, transforming our experience into national self-confidence and active optimism. Our steps now lead us only forward. And our goals are set only on higher ground!».
N.Armenis
