The excerpt from the speech
"And I must tell you that every time I go abroad, every time I go to Brussels—and I am now among the quite experienced members in the European Council, nearly eight years as prime minister—I am proud that our country counts in Brussels,that we are no longer the 'black sheep,' that we are a country with an opinion [...] and we can and do co-shape developments," he characteristically stated, effectively opening the exit window he has in mind. This specific reference can be read as an account of his presence on the European stage, but also as a reminder of the experience he has gained at the leadership level. During a period when discussions regarding his next steps resurface, the emphasis on his multi-year tenure and the position he argues Greece has attained in Brussels acquires particular political interest. This is especially true if combined with the notorious 25% target that Mitsotakis set as a personal threshold for himself in the upcoming national election campaign.
The message behind the reference
The question that arises is whether the Prime Minister confined himself to promoting the government's work and the country's international presence, or whether he simultaneously wished to remind that he possesses the attributes of a politician who could pursue a broader European role. Such an interpretation, of course, does not constitute proof that Kyriakos Mitsotakis plans to abandon the Greek political scene, at least based on his official denials. He has stated that he will lead New Democracy into the next national elections, seeking a third consecutive term as prime minister. His reference, however, to his experience in the European Council comes to reinforce an ongoing series of discussions regarding the potential utilization of his presence at the European level.
The European Council presidency in the background
As we have revealed, the Prime Minister's name has from time to time been linked to top European positions. Among the scenarios under discussion is the presidency of the European Council, currently held by former Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa. Costa's term began on December 1, 2024, and concludes on May 31, 2027, with the possibility of renewal for another two and a half years. According to Reuters reports, the Portuguese politician is expected to seek a second term, meaning that any discussion regarding a change of leadership must take into account his intentions and the balances between European political families. At the same time, the prospect of such a choice will depend on negotiations between member states and political balances within the European People's Party and other European groups. The fact that Mitsotakis belongs to the EPP could serve as a factor in a future discussion, without this prejudging any candidacy or agreement regarding European leadership roles.
European future and Greek elections
In the same context, scenarios have circulated for other top positions, including the presidency of the European Central Bank, following discussions about the future of Christine Lagarde. However, such a prospect remains distinct from the political position of European Council President, as the two institutions have different mandates and selection procedures.For now, there is no public confirmation that Kyriakos Mitsotakis is preparing a specific candidacy for a European post.His reference in Kilkis, nevertheless, provided fresh cause for discussions regarding how he perceives his European presence and what options could lie before him following upcoming political developments regarding Greek governance prospects.
Brussels immunity
Whether this constitutes a simple reference to his experience or a phrase that will acquire greater significance in political background channels remains to be seen. In any case, attention turns both to the Prime Minister's next domestic moves and to the balances that will form in Brussels. Some analysts note that if Mitsotakis wins, as opinion polls indicate,without an absolute majority, he will have achieved the record of a prime minister who wins the election but steps aside to move to the EU, facilitating political developments at home while securing Brussels political immunity.
Piraiarchis
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