He doesn't even want to hear about resignation. Indeed, with this move he probably counts on extending his stay at the helm of the Eurogroup. Here because Jeroen Dijsselbloem, after having offended the countries of southern Europe comparing them to vicious people who «spend everything on alcohol and women», he doesn't even apologize.
In his defense, the Dutchman only produces justifications: «I'm sorry if someone was offended by my statements – he says – I was direct and it can be explained with the rigid Dutch Calvinist culture, with Dutch frankness. I understand that this is not always well understood and appreciated in other parts of Europe. I learn the lesson. At the same time, I think I am appreciated for my style and for addressing all ministers with a certain rigor. If people get offended, I'm sorry. But I have no intention of resigning».
Words that are not enough to stem the avalanche of requests for resignation that fell yesterday as number one in the Eurogroup. PSE exponents such as the Portuguese premier Antonio Costa and the leader of the Democratic Party Matteo Renzi asked him to leave office, which he obtained as their party partner and then managed in full harmony with the austerity line imposed by Germany. It is no coincidence that, in addition to the Dutch premier – the liberal Rutte – the only prominent European politician to acquit Dijsselbloem was German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble.
It may seem like a paradox, given that on paper Dijsselbloem is a Labor Party. Actually right the defeat of his party in the recent Dutch elections it helps to understand the big picture. After the collapse of support at home, it is likely that Dijsselbloem he will not be confirmed as finance minister and therefore will have to leave the Eurogroup. Destiny seems sealed, but he doesn't give up. He hopes to stay in the saddle at least during the months it will take Rutte to create a new government. And maybe even further, with the help of Berlin.
