Snap elections would lead to euro exit, says former premier

Former prime minister and New Democracy honorary president Constantinos Mitsotakis on Thursday issued a statement urging local parties to find some common ground and avoid leading the country to early general elections, after a first vote in Parliament for a new president was seen a poor result for the coalition forces.

The government's candidate, former EU commissioner Stavros Dimas, received 160 votes, out of 200 required for election in the first round.

“Snap elections would lead to a euro exit,” noted Mitsotakis, who argued that placing the country's interests above personal and party interests was vital.

Earlier in the day, the elderly statesman met with Panos Kammenos, leader of anti-bailout Independent Greeks party, a meeting which Mitsotakis said was part of efforts for the election of a new president.

Following the meeting Kammenos reiterated his position of not voting for Dimas in the next two round on December 23 and 29.