Main opposition New Democracy party leader Antonis Samaras, speaking after the conclusion of the European People's Party (EPP) summit in Helsinki on Friday evening, said the European crisis, the proposal on the European Competitiveness Accord and the strengthening of the European Support Mechanism, as well as developments in North Africa and the Middle East were discussed at the summit.
"Tonight in Helsinki, all the issues of the European crisis were raised. Special emphasis was given to the developments in North Africa and the Middle East. It was to be expected. I stressed mainly that Europe must not run behind the events. It must be the first to show substantive, economic, diplomatic and, above all, political solidarity to these countries. And on the other hand Europe itself must obtain a common, its own, policy on immigration, security, repatriation and prevention. Because this crisis must not in any way worsen the internal economic crisis that countries such as Greece as well are facing," Samaras said.
The ND leader further said "in the meeting of the leaders, the proposal on the European Competitiveness Accord was discussed, as well as the strengthening of the European Support Mechanism. Alternative proposals that are far more realistic than the initial ones are already being shaped," adding that "we are in a common effort with many other leaders of Europe for us to create a real breakthrough, a real European solution. I hope, through many difficulties, that such a thing will become a reality soon."
source: ANA
