Journalist: Mr. Droutsas, a lot of questions were put forward at the Sofia conference, as were proposals for how Europe might help Arab societies launch their transition to democracy. What is the strategic interest of Greeks and Bulgarians in this?
Mr. Droutsas: Greece is an immediate neighbour of the states of the Middle East. We have traditional relations with the Arab countries; relations based on respect and understanding. That is why developments in the region concern us directly. Peace, security and stability in this region mean peace, security and stability in Greece. Economic growth in this region means economic growth for Greece. If we invest more in our neighbours’ future, perhaps we will be able to avoid certain problems: for example, large migration waves out of the Middle East. One of the natural pathways of migrants runs through Greece. As for Bulgaria, it may not be an immediate neighbour of the countries of the Middle East, but it is close to the region. That is why I think that what holds true for Greece also holds true for Bulgaria. We are working together closely. I am in direct contact with my Bulgarian counterpart, Mr. Mladenov. Our two countries are contributing to the policy being exercised, or that should be exercised, by the EU as a whole.
Journalist: But how can we win the trust of the Arabs if we are so afraid of their migrants?
Mr. Droutsas: This is an issue of decisive importance, because trust is of paramount importance when you are facing matters like this. In the initial phase, we need to be careful not to create the wrong impression: that the West, Europe, is coming back to impose something new. The key word here is cooperation. Without sending the wrong messages, we need to help towards the development of these countries’ economies so that their citizens don’t feel the need to leave and seek a better future in Europe.
Journalist: Beyond countries like Afghanistan, the situation obviously won’t improve soon in Bahrain, in Yemen, in Syria. Bearing in mind the difficulties in Greece with migrants from the Middle East – migrants who come over the border with Turkey – wouldn’t it be better for Bulgaria not to enter Schengen so quickly?
Mr. Droutsas: I can’t advise the Bulgarian government. In our opinion, the more convergence we have in the EU in all sectors, the greater the benefits for our common future. And as you referred to Greece’s position on Schengen and the difficulties Greece is facing with illegal migration, I don’t think that the challenges of migration have been caused by membership in Schengen. Illegal migrants are not the problem of a country that is on the EU’s external borders. They are a problem of the whole EU. All the member states have a moral obligation to show solidarity and share the responsibility.
Journalist: During the forum, you proposed that the EU draw up a kind of Marshall Plan for the North African countries. Is this really feasible, and how will European societies see this, particularly with crisis conditions in the eurozone, with Portugal also needing economic support.?
Mr. Droutsas: I understand these qualms, but I am of the view that we are living through an historic moment with the changes in the Arab world. Europe can benefit from this opportunity. We are talking about EU investments in peace and stability – the creation of economic growth and social stability for these countries. I understand that in the midst of very difficult economic conditions throughout the EU, it is not easy to find the necessary funding. But when we talk about a European Marshall Plan, we have to see it in its symbolic sense: that Europe is proposing something big; something that doesn’t stop at just economic support, but includes a package of political, economic and social measures for the region. I am certain that in an open dialogue with the other European countries, we will find the necessary solution.
May 9, 2011