The President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, talked to protothema.gr and said that he is in favor of linking the refugee crisis to deficits and costs arising from it.

Mr. Schulz sends also a message to the countries which are reluctant to receive refugees, noting that a member state can not only enjoy the benefits of the European Union, but it must also undertake the relevant responsibilities.

He also admitted that after many years of inactivity, a relocation framework is now being created, whereas regarding Turkey’s role, he emphasized that EU should help Turkey to keep the refugees who want to live “close to their country”.

Asked on whether Greece should receive an additional political or economic assistance because of the refugees issue, Mr. Schulz referred to European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker who argued last week that EU budget deficit rules could be stretched for governments which spend money on refugees and there could be a certain amount of flexibility in the Stability and Growth Pact and said that he is in favor of that view.