Party of European Socialist leaders met today to discuss developments is the situation regarding refugees and relations between the EU and Turkey. They were joined by Selahattin Demirtas HDP [1] Leader – one of the PES Member Parties in Turkey.

Sergei Stanishev, PES President said after the meeting: “We, as social-democrats completely support the EU-Turkey action plan and we understand the urgent need of it to be approved by both sides and implemented. At the same time, there shouldn’t be any compromises on human rights and freedom of the press in Turkey. We are working with our colleagues, the progressive forces in Turkey, to ensure this is the case.”

“Refugees escaping from violence and danger are continuing to cross rough seas and dangerous land to reach Europe. Their safety is our first priority. Time has come to dismantle smuggler’s networks”, Stanishev added.

According to PES leaders today, the EU-Turkey Action Plan provided us with a good basis for helping refugees in the most appropriate place and they support First Vice President Timmermans who fought hard for this. Turkey must fulfill its part of the deal and be more proactive in combating trafficking and helping refugees at home.

See the photos of the meeting [2]

Party of European Socialists (PES)
http://www.pes.eu/ [3]