PES president Sergei Stanishev said: “Gianni’s vigour and optimism will now face the test of Italian voters. I’m sure he will achieve a great result. As a president of the S&D group at the European Parliament, he has consistently fought for social justice and equal opportunities in a strong and united Europe. He has done an excellent job. That’s what Italy needs now in this defining election for both Italy and the EU. The PES stands behind Pittella and PD with all its strength”.