A strategic vision for the country

Twenty years have gone by since Constantine Karamanlis's passing and one thing remains clear: He was a true political leader who gained the respect of the the Greek people and of whom New Democracy is proud.

Contemplating his decisive contribution with regard to Greece's historical course, I will not focus only on the bold reforms in which he played a central role, such as the 1975 Constitution or Greece's accession to the European Union. I would also like to reflect on the bigger picture of his legacy and shed light on how we can make good use of it within the current political context.

Karamanlis's perspective on things was characterized by a distinctive clarity. He defined his strategy always bearing in mind that four main targets had to be met: economic growth, broadening and deepening democracy, security, and integration into European institutions. What is of vital...