Venizelos talks about European solidarity

On the final turn before the European parliamentary elections next May, the big political families are rallying around their respective candidates for European Commission president. This weekend the spotlight is on the European Socialist Party conference in Rome, promoting the candidacy of German social-democrat, Martin Schulz.

All leaders of socialist parties in the continent are gathered in the Italian capital proclaiming their vision for the future of the European Union. Among them, PASOK president, foreign minister and government vice president Evangelos Venizelos, who seized the opportunity to talk about his ideas of European change.

“Socialists and social democrats must emphasize on solidarity, pluralism, creativity and employment stimulation” said Mr Venizelos. “We say no to euroskepticism and financial nationalism and we consider European completion to be a fundamental concern for all our advanced societies and all our citizens”, he added.

Mr. Venizelos pointed out that he considers it essential that European socialists convince citizens that a united Europe means not unemployment, recession and austerity, but growth, social cohesion and employment.

PASOK leader had an opportunity to meet with the new Italian Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi for the first time. The 39 year old leader pushed the conference’s message across clearly: “We have to make it abundantly clear that a social Europe is the precondition and not the consequence of the market oriented Europe”, he said.