“I raised the question of German reparations and the loan made during the occupation. I would like to note that Greece never abandoned its claim,” Mr Papoulias was reported to have said (link in Greek) during joint statements made today by the two heads of state. Speaking directly to Mr Gauck Mr Papoulias said that, “A solution to the problem must be sought with negotiations beginning as soon as possible,”
While prior to his trip to Greece Mr Gauck admitted that Germany had a ‘moral debt’ to Greece he responded to Mr Papoulias by saying that the issue was out of his hands. “I cannot adopt a position different to that of the German Government,” Mr Gauck said.
The statements over the issue of reparations comes after SYRIZA MP and WWII resistance hero Manolis Glezos wrote an open letter to Mr Gauck saying that the ‘time is now’ for Germany to live up to its obligations over the price Greece paid during the Nazi occupation.
Aside from destroying much of Greece’s infrastructure during the war and causing Greek deaths in the hundreds of thousands, Germany also forced the government of the time to issue a huge loan to the Third Reich which has never been repaid. While the current Greek government has committed to exploring the potential legal routes for redress, German government officials have repeatedly stated that they consider the matter closed.
While Mr Gauck was not willing to concede that Greece may have a potential case for economic reparations he said that Nazi crimes must not be forgotten. Tomorrow he will accompany Mr Papoulias on a visit to the region of Ioannina to pay his respects to the victims of Nazi violence.
“What I can do is, when we go together to Ioannina is to find the words to recognize German culpability to the victims. The culpability has not only material but moral dimensions. In Germany there is a negative development. Many things have been forgotten… I will show the way. The atrocities of Nazism must stay in our memories.”
Aside from the issue of reparations Mr Papoulias informed his counterpart of the heavy toll austerity was having on Greek citizens. Mr Gauck acknowledged this saying, “I would like to express my respect for all those who have endured the reforms and for those who are implementing them,” he said.
Both Presidents also stressed the importance of Greek German ties speaking of historic Greek-German friendship. “I would like to confirm the long-term friendship between the two countries which may – from current developments and discussions – have been overshadowed but remains strong.” Mr Gauck said.