European socialists and democrats will continue working for leadership of the European institutions that respects the verdict of voters – who entrusted socialists and democrats as the second largest political force – and brings strength and unity to Europe.
Secretary General of the Party of European Socialists Giacomo Filibeck said:
“The voters have had their say. Pro-European, pro-democratic parties have achieved a majority. Now we must work to translate that result in a way which strengthens and unifies the European project. As the second largest political force in Europe, we are focused on playing a constructive role in that process.
“Following the European elections, the PES continues to stand by the Spitzenkandidat system and is ready to support the EPP candidate for President of the European Commission, providing the negotiations do not involve far right political families and the programme truly reflects the need to strengthen our Union.
“With negotiations ongoing for the next mandate, we will continue to work constructively, pragmatically and responsibly to translate that result in a way which strengthens and unifies the European project and reflects our position as the second largest force in the European Parliament.
“Last night’s exchanges were the first step in a longer negotiation process. We have trust in our negotiators Olaf Scholz and Pedro Sánchez to find the way forward in the interest of European democracy and its institutions.
“In the context of challenges emerging both inside and outside the union, strength and unity now is the only way to deliver solutions for the benefit of all citizens.”
