The following statement was released by the Prime Minister Antonis Samaras’ office on Wednesday, regarding the first vote for the election of a President of the Republic to take place today:

“Tonight, the first vote for the election of a President of the Republic will take place. During this procedure, any positive vote will not be interpreted as a vote in favor of the government, but as a decision to defend the Constitution and respect the institution of the President of the Republic.

It will also help the country avoid a political adventure that could be fatal for its European course.”