New defense minister to be appointed without reshuffle

An announcement regarding the new defense minister replacing recently appointed European commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos (photo) could be made on Friday, Kathimerini understands.

According to Kathimerini sources, the appointment will by made by Prime Minister Antonis Samaras without a broader cabinet reshuffle and could involve a minister transferring from another cabinet portfolio.

While Avramopoulos officially resigns on Saturday a new minister could be sworn in on Monday.