S&D of Progressive Alliance of Sociali : Gianni Pittella: From Greece, a clear message to EU: Stop austerity and Troika’s dictators

Commenting on today's parliamentary elections in Greece and the first election polls, S&D Group president, Gianni Pittella, welcomed the victory of left-wing parties in Greece and urged Alexis Tsipras to form a strong pro-European coalition: The renegotiation of Greek's debt should no more be considered as a taboo.

Gianni Pittella said:

"The Greek people have clearly chosen to stop the austerity imposed on them by Troika's dictators and ask the new government to bring in fair policies with more social justice. The renegotiation of the Greek debt, and in particular the extension of the terms of its bailout, should no more be considered as a taboo. It is now time to invest in economic growth to reduce deficit and public debt. The S&D Group has always fought for this approach in the European Parliament. The will of the Greek people should be respected by all EU institutions and member states alike.

"Should the exit polls be confirmed, the outcome of this election paves the way for a large progressive coalition. Hence, we encourage Alexis Tsipras, the leader of Syriza, which has won most votes in the election, to start negotiations with all pro-European progressive forces to form a strong and workable government. The S&D Group is ready to fully co-operate with the new progressive government, which is expected to seriously fight against tax evasion, tax avoidance and corruption."