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Almost everybody is talking about the need for unity. But, just like at the European Council, our today's debate has shown how divided we are on the subject of Greece.
This is the reason why we should return to our common simple principles that have accompanied people for many centuries.
Firstly, in this crisis we must unconditionally respect one another;
Secondly, morality means paying off the debts you owe to others. It is not so that the creditors are bad and immoral while the debtor is an innocent victim;
Thirdly, it is simply impossible to keep spending over a long period of time much more than one earns. This is the source of the crisis in Greece, not the common currency;
Fourthly, seek help among your friends and not among your enemies, especially when they are unable to help you;
And, finally, if you want to help your friend in need, do not humiliate him.
Today, we need unity. Not because unity is a beautiful idea, but because it is indispensable in order to take concrete decisions. Without unity on Greece, we will wake up in four days in a different Europe. This is really and truly the final wake-up call for Greece but also for us, our last chance.
I want to inform you that the last chance procedure has just started. President Dijsselbloem has received, while we are debating here, the formal Greek request for the ESM programme, as we agreed yesterday.
I hope that this is a good sign, a good omen for tomorrow. I hope. Thank you.
