ATHENS, (Reuters) – Greece named banker Lucas Papademos as head of a new crisis government on Thursday, ending the country’s chaotic search for a leader to save it from default, bankruptcy and expulsion from the euro zone.
A solemn Papademos called on Greeks to unite behind him after months of divisive politicking, as he sets about securing a bailout from the European Union that will impose yet more hardship on a nation already suffering soaring unemployment.
“The choices we make will be decisive for the Greek people. The path will not be easy but I am convinced the problems will be resolved faster and at a smaller cost if there is unity, understanding and prudence,” Papademos said as he emerged from the coalition talks brokered by President Karolos Papoulias.
In a week when other European leaders started to openly question Athens’ membership of the 17-currency bloc, the former European Central Bank vice-president stressed Greece’s commitment to the euro.
