Greek citizens voted yesterday in the legislative elections in a difficult context. This is the conservative and corrupted right, "New Democracy", which arrives slightly ahead (29.5%) before the Syriza coalition led by Alexis Tsipras (27%).
The rejection of austerity in Greece is so strong that the right wing itself, in this campaign, said a lengthening of maturities of debt payment was needed. Angela Merkel today approved this measure in Los Cabos whereas if Syriza had won, the exclusion of Greece in the euro area was seriously considered. The fate of the Greek seems depend on acquaintances of the German Chancellor. This raises questions about the current European construction.

However, New Democracy will be facing its contradictions. It is preparing to form a government with PASOK, that has itself paid dearly for its forsakings. Policies of austerity and self-destruction of the country remain illegitimate in the Greeks' point of view.
After weeks of threats, International blackmail and disinformation, the Greek people confirmed and accentuated the dazzling rise of Syriza. With 27% of the vote and 72 seats in the Greek Parliament - 10 points higher than May 6 - this coalition of political and social forces is now, by far, the heart of the Greek left and the real opposition to the pro-austerity alliance.
It is a remarkable result which indicates a recomposition of the political landscape. This is a major event that must be heard throughout Europe. I, on behalf of the Party of European Left, say our pride and support for militants and forces of Syriza and especially to Alexis Tsipras.
The Greek people can trust Syriza to continue fighting against memoranda and make proposals to exit the crisis by rebuilding greek economy and development of social and democratic rights. Together with the Party of European Left, we will continue to act for joint solutions to the crisis as a basis for a new European construction.
Pierre Laurent
President of the Party of European Left