In a press conference held in Brussels today, the S&D Group called on all parties to maintain dialogue and find a solution for Greece.
 
Gianni Pittella, S&D Group president, said:
 
"Our initiative yesterday to call for the re-opening of the negotiations between Athens and the European institutions has paid off. The Commission has responded in a responsible and constructive way by offering a revised proposal to Greece.
 
"Mr Juncker has put forward proposals for improvements in the areas of pensions and debt, and on the possibility of extending the current bailout programme. As prime minister Tsipras confirmed in our last exchange, the Greek government is now considering the new proposal.
 
"We have to keep the door open for Greece. As called for by all Greek socialist and progressive forces, we must do whatever it takes to keep dialogue between creditors and the Greek government ongoing to find a solution in the coming hours for Greece to stay in the Eurozone. We have to save Greece from bankruptcy and the EU from a deep crisis. The future of Greek people but also the whole of Europe is at stake."
 
S&D Group vice-president, Maria João Rodrigues added:
 
"We call on the Eurozone Summit to extend the financial programme for 8 days and give a final push to finalise a fairer deal for Greece.
 
"This final push needs to give a clear signal that people in Greece should be protected against poverty and that a more credible solution for debt sustainability will be considered.
 
"Finally, we call on the Eurozone Summit to show a clear commitment to strengthening the resilience of the European Monetary Union further, starting with a reinforced financial pillar.
 
"At the same time, we call on the Greek government to realize that significant steps towards a compromise have been taken by its European partners. A deal is in the country's best interest and within reach.
 
"A compromise is necessary for the integrity of the Eurozone and the credibility of the EU as such."

S&D press contact