PM Tsipras receives UN High Commissioner for Refugees Guterres

“It is a very difficult condition but we do whatever possible,” said Mr. Tsipras

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras received on Monday UN High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres and talked about the refugee crisis.

Mr. Guterres referred to his visit to the island of Lesvos where he had the opportunity to observe the conditions and management of the refugees’ problem and also referred to the Greek people’s solidarity towards the refugees.

“It is a very difficult condition but we do whatever possible,” said Mr. Tsipras.

“I am Portuguese and I understand the condition. My country and here is the same,” said Mr. Guterres adding that he saw humanity and this is the most impressive. The problems can be solved but if there isn’t humanity, nothing can be done, he reiterated underlining that this is a good example for Europe.

“In Greece there were also difficulties, but now the difference between a refugee and migrant is clear now,” stressed Mr. Tsipras adding that the Greeks have the experience because in the past many Greeks came from the Aegean as refugees.

Mr. Guterres has already visited the refugee reception centre at Eleonas in Athens and the island of Lesvos.