Two GUE/NGL MEPs have expressed their solidarity with Syrian refugees in a debate on the issue today in plenary.

GUE/NGL MEP Marisa Matias said: "We have talked a lot about Syria already in this house and we must continue to do so as the situation is only getting worse. It is not something that just affects the Middle East or Syria, it affects all of us. We must have a stronger position on Syria. There is a fund for helping refugees so let's use it. We must ensure refugees' protection and let them into Europe.

I support a political solution to the conflict but I think there is a lot more we can do to stop the flow of arms into the country."

GUE/NGL MEP Kyriacos Triantaphyllides commented: "The situation is tragic and we have seen horrendous levels of human suffering with more than 70,000 people killed, and millions more made homeless. Sexual violence against women is also widespread in the camps where they are supposed to be protected. We also need to consider the Palestinian refugees who were living in Syria who have now had to flee once again, making them refugees twice over.

It is a vicious cycle of violence. We must ensure that humanitarian aid is provided. Something must be done before it is too late for the country and the people."