Spanish PM Rajoy Hopes Greece Will Say 'No' to Leaving Eurozone

Mariano Rajoy expressed hopes that EU-Greek negotiations will be successful and will lead to a solution that benefits everyone.

MADRID (Sputnik) — Greece staying in the Eurozone is crucial not only to the country but to Spain and the European Union as well, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said at a press-conference after talks with President of the European Council Donald Tusk Tuesday.

“The Spanish government wants Greece to succeed. It is important for Greeks and for European countries. Of course, I want them to stay in the eurozone. It will benefit Greece, Spain and the European Union,” Rajoy said.

A policy that ensures sustainable growth and the creation of jobs is the main goal for Greek authorities, according to the prime minister.

Rajoy expressed hope that EU-Greek negotiations will be successful and will lead to a solution that benefits everyone.

“I hope that Greece will realize that it is important to send a message that the rules are met,” the prime minister added, calling for the country to comply with its obligations to the European Union.

The economy of Greece is currently struggling with $265 billion the country owes to the troika of creditors, the European Union, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

In January, the newly-elected Syriza party announced it would abandon the austerity obligations imposed upon it by the troika, raising concerns that Greece could leave the Eurozone.

In February, Greece and Eurozone finance ministers agreed to extend the country's bailout for another four months. Under the new deal, Greece would carry out all remaining austerity reforms required by the troika before receiving further financial aid.