Greece needs EU's support to cope with refugee crisis, Ska Keller tells ANA-MPA

The Vice-Chair of the EuroParliament's Group of the Greens/European Free Alliance, who specialises in migration issues, Keller said Greeks could not be expected to simultaneously receive refugees and open their homes to them while at the same time being in danger of losing the same homes to even tougher austerity measures. Given the current conditions, some austerity rules should be relaxed instead of being made even harsher, she added.
She said Europe must show solidarity regarding the refugee problem, adding that "without solidarity there is no Europe."
Keller said the goal was to ensure the legal and safe access of refugees to European countries and to set up a permanent mechanism for their reception and relocation, not just in emergencies but also under normal circumstances.
Following her visit to the Aegean island of Lesvos in order to witness the problems at first hand, Keller noted a need for more "time, money and resources," in terms of both personnel and equipment.
During her time in Greece, after her arrival the previous week, Keller had a series of meetings with members of the government to discuss the refugee crisis, fighting corruption and carrying out reforms. She said that the government had the determination and ambition to make progress but its efforts were being overshadowed by the refugee crisis.
"Europe must assume its responsibilities and recognise both the great difficulties and the efforts being made by the Greek government," she added.