"We have come here with a constructive spirit, striving to ensure Greece remains in the Euro, but it must earn our trust" says Mariano Rajoy

Brussels (Belgium)

The President of the Government declared that it is urgent to take a decision because in January this year Greece had a growth forecast of 2.9% whereas now it is in freefall of between 2 and 4%. "Things have got significantly worse, the economic situation has gravely deteriorated; at the end of the day it is the people who are suffering and hence, it is very important for us to resolve this issue as soon as possible".

In addition to a deterioration of the economic situation, confidence has deteriorated between the members of the Eurozone and the Greek Government, above all following the surprise calling of a referendum, said Mariano Rajoy. For this reason, it is necessary to make an effort to ensure this lost confidence is recovered, said Mariano Rajoy.

The President of the Government added that "we are going to maintain a constructive position as indeed we always have done. We believe that it is good for Greece to stay in the Eurozone, we would stress that when you are a member of a club - if we can call it that - you must follow the rules and procedures of the club, we all have rights, but we all also have obligations; if not it is impossible for things to work".

Finally, he underlined that in his opinion the Euro is irreversible and "whatever happens the Euro is here to stay and Spain will be a very important asset within the Euro system". Furthermore, he added that we must make an effort to continue working towards economic union and the federalisation of the Eurozone.