Επιστολή του Γερουσιαστή Λεωνίδα Ραπτάκη προς τον Πρόεδρο Ομπάμα

State Senator Leonidas Raptakis

2080 Nooseneck Hill Road

Coventry, RI  02816

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PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Contact: Leonidas Raptakis--(401) 397-2720 / (401) 524-2233

RAPTAKIS ASKS OBAMA ADMINISTRATION TO GET BEHIND FAIR RESOLUTION TO ECONOMIC CRISIS IN GREECE

Calls for balanced approach that allows Greece to grow its economy without placing new burdens on its citizens, creating more instability

            (Coventry, RI 3/2/15) Even though the Eurogroup nations have negotiated an agreement to extend support to the Greek government, Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas Raptakis is asking the Obama administration to support a fair settlement of the Greek economic crisis that does not simply demand greater austerity with no regard for the consequences.

In a letter to the President, Raptakis suggested the President was right to point out that the European Union “cannot keep on squeezing countries that are in the midst of depression.” He also said the President was right to argue that “at some point there has to be a growth strategy in order for them to pay off their debts to eliminate some of the deficits.” Raptakis said such an approach is going to require a strong U.S. push to encourage the Eurogroup to avoid imposing demands for structural reforms which will destroy the Greek economy and prevent a recovery which will allow Greece to get back on its feet.

“The United States has a chance to demonstrate meaningful leadership and encourage the EU nations to negotiate in good faith with an understanding of the need to recognize domestic political concerns in Greece,” said Raptakis. “Imposing unrealistic financial demands is only going to lead to greater instability and force Greece and other nations in dire economic straits down the road of default and withdrawal from the union.”

            Raptakis said the Obama administration’s support for a more balanced approach will not only help Greece, but ensure greater stability throughout Europe. He said recent weeks of brinksmanship and threats cannot be repeated and America must support honest negotiations and a process of give-and-take that allow Greece to grow its way out financial difficulties. By keeping the parties focused on their common interests, the U.S. can play a vital role in promoting an outcome that will promote great stability in the world’s financial markets.

“We have a chance to help Greece forge a new path toward economic prosperity,” said Raptakis. “But that can only happen with an honest dialogue that promotes realistic reforms, developed in cooperation with Greek government and giving the flexibility they need to maintain domestic support for their efforts.”