Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis talked to ERTNews about theneed to protect in an institutional way “the Greek Orthodox and pilgrimage character of Holy Monastery of St. Catherine. At the same time, he strongly criticized the opposition for “irresponsible and sloppy attitude”. At the same time, he also referred to the Pre-Investigation Committee, saying that “our parliamentary group will vote in favour of the ND proposal.”

“The Prime Minister clearly stressed to his Egyptian counterpart that for us the preservation of the Greek Orthodox and pilgrimage character of the Holy Monastery of St. Catherine in Sinai is paramount” commented Mr. Marinakis, noting that since May 7 there is an agreement between the two leaders to resolve the issue through institutional channels and with respect to religious traditions. As he stressed, “a delegation will go to Egypt on Monday for final discussions, expressing optimism for the positive outcome of the case and the uninterrupted continuation of the monastery’s operation.

“This monastery is one of the most emblematic Orthodox monasteries in the world and I think it echoes the sensibilities of every Greek,” he said. The government spokesman also attacked the opposition parties, which, he said,“rushed to make announcements before they even read the decision, noting that “unfortunately, it was not the first time and I fear it will not be the last that they politicize with such haste.”

He also underlined that all opposition parties“were quick to politically exploit an issue of deep religious and national significance. This is not a serious attitude”. At the same time he was highly critical of the opposition president, saying: “Mr. Androulakis at 6:30 in the afternoon had already announced that the Greek government is ‘deeply exposed’ before he even read the decision.” And as he mockingly stated, “It reminds me of the coaches on the podium. With no insight or information, they judge, creating confusion and anxiety in the crowd. Politics cannot work like that.”

Marinakis also referred to the statements of the clergy, including Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece, who referred to “yet another historical cancellation.” He commented that“it is perfectly logical for them to express their anguish,” but noted that “the government has been seriously dealing with the issue for a year now, in order to provide an institutional solution and secure the rights of the monastery.”