Sharp attack on the Left, praise for Greece’s economy and a strong message for Europe’s future from ND Congress
In a speech loaded with political symbolism, ideological clarity and strategic messaging for the future of Europe, the president of the European People’s Party, Manfred Weber, not only praised Kyriakos Mitsotakis but also launched a direct political attack against Alexis Tsipras and the broader European Left.
The stage of the 16th Congress of New Democracy effectively turned into a pan-European platform endorsing Mitsotakis’ government, with Weber presenting Greece as a European success story and a governance model for the entire EU.
The attack on Tsipras and the “dark years”
The phrase that triggered the strongest reactions was Weber’s reference to the “dark years of the economic crisis and the dangerous Tsipras administration.”
Within government circles, the statement was viewed as a major political boost for Mitsotakis, as it marked one of the clearest public associations by a top European official between the SYRIZA era and economic instability in Europe.
Senior officials privately noted that Weber was essentially attempting to “close the chapter of the anti-memorandum era” and establish Mitsotakis as the leader who restored Greece’s credibility at the heart of Europe.
“Europe is now learning from Greece”
Even more striking was Weber’s statement that countries such as Germany, Austria and the Netherlands “can now learn from Greece.”
A phrase that would have sounded politically unimaginable only a few years ago was used by the head of Europe’s most powerful political family as proof — in his words — of Greece’s economic transformation.
According to insiders, this part of the speech was viewed by the Greek government as a powerful communication asset at a time when Athens is trying to reinforce the narrative of economic credibility and international upgrading.
Praise for defense, migration policy and geopolitical strength
Weber did not focus solely on the economy. A large part of his intervention centered on defense and geopolitics.
His reference to Greek frigates supporting Cyprus’ security against Iran was interpreted as clear recognition of Greece’s upgraded strategic role in the Eastern Mediterranean.
At the same time, the EPP president fully endorsed the government’s strict migration policy, describing it as “firm but humane” and presenting it as a European model.
Behind the scenes, many ND officials commented that Weber had effectively “Europeanized” the government’s policies on migration and national security.
The message for Europe in 2029
Particular political significance was attached to Weber’s warning about the rise of populist and far-right forces across Europe.
He attempted to portray the EPP as the only stable political force standing between what he described as an “irresponsible Left” and a “dangerous far-right.”
At the same time, he used Greece as an example of successful center-right governance.
His references to Donald Tusk, Ursula von der Leyen and Roberta Metsola highlighted a broader objective: to show that the EPP is not only dominating European politics today but is already preparing for the major political battle of 2029.
The political message behind the standing ovation
For many inside the Greek government, Weber’s speech was far more than a routine party intervention.
It was a European political certification of Kyriakos Mitsotakis as one of the strongest center-right leaders in the European Union.
And that message was perfectly encapsulated in one key phrase:
“Greece has returned to the heart of Europe.”
A phrase that officials in Athens believe summarizes the government’s entire political narrative for the years ahead.
Source: pagenews.gr