Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, presented the priorities of Greece's EU presidency at the European Parliament in Strasbourg yesterday, spoke of the unity of Europe and "the common wish of all people in Europe to proceed to integration". In the next Europarliamentary elections – to be held in May - which coincide with Greece's completion of the EU presidency, Europeans must not vote in bitterness but with the hope that the crisis can be overcome, he said.

Proving all doomsayers wrong, Greece showed it can succeed and has become a symbol for the resilience of Europe, Samaras said. In reference to the presidency agenda and in addition to the issues already put forward, the premier spoke of the four major priorities: first, stimulating growth and employment; second, supporting the common currency, as well as enhancing confidence in the European economy. This means deepening of the EMU, while working closely with the trialogue to get to the adoption of the Single Resolution Mechanism (SRM). The third priority is a solution to the immigration issue; and fourth, Greece aims to give new impetus to the EU maritime policies.

After the presentation of the priorities Prime Minister Antonis Samaras held a press conference with EP President, Martin Schulz.

See also Greek EU Presidency