Ahead of the Eurogroup’s meeting, S&D Euro MPs call on the Eurozone’s finances ministers to conclude the second review of the Greek bail-out programme and to discuss debt relief.
S&D group president Gianni Pittella said:
"There is no more time to waste. Today’s Eurogroup meeting should finally conclude the second review of the Greek programme. A quick and positive conclusion of this process should then open a prompt discussion on Greek debt relief and on which measures should be put in place to speed up growth and development.
"The S&D Group is called upon to denounce the unacceptable requests put forward by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concerning the additional measures the Greek government should take in advance of the 2019 Budget.
"There is an issue of legality and effectiveness. These inappropriate requests could negatively impact Greece's political stability and damage its economic prospects."
S&D Group vice-president Udo Bullmann added:
"By honouring their commitment to enter meaningful discussions on debt relief, creditors must give Greece the chance to return to sustainable and inclusive growth. To get this done, debt relief must be paired with responsible and growth-friendly fiscal policies to break the vicious circle of economic degradation and social regress.
"We need to see a constructive spirit on all sides. As part of the current programme, the Greek government is again required to take decisions that will affect present and future generations of Greeks. In light of worldwide economic uncertainty, a precarious social situation, and thousands of stranded refugees in Greece, the last thing all parties involved need is another standoff.
"S&Ds also draw particular attention to the reform of the Greek labour market and collective bargaining system. Despite the obvious constraints the Greek economy is under, these reforms must include effective steps against the growth of precarious forms of employment and infinite wage moderation. We call on the Greek authorities and creditors to take all necessary steps that allow the country to establish a fair and modern labour market, including an inclusive system of collective bargaining."
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