EU Wants Greece To Stay In Eurozone, Says Van Rompuy back

posted on Thu, 24 May at 05:59

EU leaders want Greece to remain in the eurozone but to "respect its commitments", European Council President Herman Van Rompuy has said.


Mr Van Rompuy, speaking at an informal EU summit, said continuing "vital reforms" were essential for Greece to overcome its economic problems.

The eurozone crisis has overshadowed the talks, amid fears that Greece may have to exit the single currency.

The eurozone is said to be preparing for such a scenario.

"We want Greece to remain in the euro area while respecting its commitments," Mr Van Rompuy told a news conference in Brussels.

"We are fully aware of the significant efforts already made by the Greek citizens.

"The eurozone has shown considerable solidarity having already disbursed, together with the IMF (International Monetary Fund) nearly 150bn euros in support of Greece since 2010."

He said the EU would take action to return Greece to economic growth and job creation.

But Mr Van Rompuy said "continuing vital reforms" were "the best guarantee for a more prosperous future in the euro area".

Referring to Greece's forthcoming elections in June he said: "We expect that after the elections the new Greek government will make that choice."

Source: BBC.