“Europe is not jeopardized by Greece, but by the growing economic selfishness among member states,” said German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Sigmar Gabriel speaking at the Federal Parliament on the 2016 budget, while he warned that “if we do not overcome this selfishness, we will no longer be able to convince people about the European idea”.

“Consistency, stability and deepening of economic and monetary union is in our vital interest and Mr. Schaeuble was right to ask Member States to respect the rules of the eurozone,” he added.

Regarding Germany, Mr. Gabriel noted that, despite the current situation in China, he doesn’t believe there are concerns on limiting economic growth, while he stressed the strong economy and stable fiscal policies allow supporting emergency situations, such as refugee crisis.

Mr. Gabriel highlighted the need for a new immigration law in Germany and was in favor of introducing such legislation at European level.