The government is exploiting the farmers’ divisive moves

The Maximos Mansion moved swiftly to capitalise on the farmers’ divisive moves, following the decision by representatives of 18 roadblocks across the country to move towards “substantive dialogue”.

Speaking through government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis, the government stated that, on its part, “the willingness for dialogue is more than sincere”.

“Now, even if belatedly, more and more representatives of the farmers’ mobilisations appear to be recognising the need to come to the negotiating table. This is an encouraging development. It is crucial that those who still refuse dialogue also understand this, setting aside the outdated logic of sterile confrontation, which has severely tested society’s resilience,” he commented, concluding that “sincere dialogue — and only that — will deliver solutions.”

The full statement by the government spokesperson

From the very start of the mobilisations by people in the primary sector, the government invited them to engage in dialogue. The Prime Minister had even set a specific date for this purpose.

For the government, the willingness for dialogue is more than sincere. With the framework we have put forward, the overwhelming majority of the demands of farmers and livestock breeders are being met, building on what we have implemented in recent years and resolving issues in the agricultural sector that date back decades. At the same time, payments are proceeding in line with the timetable we had set.

Now, even if belatedly, more and more representatives of the farmers’ mobilisations appear to be recognising the need to come to the negotiating table. This is an encouraging development. It is crucial that those who still refuse dialogue also understand this, setting aside the outdated logic of sterile confrontation, which has severely tested society’s resilience.

Sincere dialogue — and only that — will deliver solutions.