ATHENS – "Today, the message of solidarity and common challenges is more relevant than ever before. Europe is facing brave decisions that will play a role in our common future, with Greece playing a leading role in shaping these positions," ruling New Democracy's (ND) press office said in a statement on the anniversary of the signing of the agreement by which Greece joined the European Economic Community (EEC), the precursor to the European Union.

In its statement, ND said: "This day marks 41 years since the day our founder, Constantine Karamanlis, signed so that Greece could join as the 10th member of the European Economic Community.

"Greece's accession to the EEC was his grandest vision and proved to be particularly beneficial for our country. Joining the EEC has strengthened our country against external risks, has contributed to the stabilisation and upgrading of the quality of democracy and has helped economic growth."

Concluding, the ruling party underlined: "Today we celebrate the historic anniversary and, with confidence in our achievements, we strengthen Greece's position in United Europe to improve the lives of all Greeks."