The EESC President received by the Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy

On the occasion of his visit to Madrid, the President of the European Economic and Social Committee, Henri Malosse, was received by the Spanish Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy i. Youth employment was at the heart of their discussion and in particular the obstacles that currently prevent the implementation of the European Commission's program "Youth Guarantee".

Henri Malosse declared to the Spanish Prime Minister the support of his Committee for the courageous steps that have been taken in recent months, in order to tackle the critical situation Spain is currently facing.

Mariano Rajoy and Henri Malosse agreed on the need for the European Union to begin focusing on the priorities which are the main concerns of citizens. They thus concurred on the importance of employment in the first place as well as the support for small and medium enterprises, especially by an improved access to loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The issue of illegal immigration was also discussed following the tragic incidents in Melilla on 18 March. This calls for a genuine European policy in this field, not only in the area of policing but also in helping African countries to develop and to put in place stable institutions, a prerequisite for peace.

Regarding the fight against youth unemployment, they expressed their regretted that the Youth Guarantee has not been implemented more quickly due to administrative delays, even though the situation necessitates urgent action.

Henri Malosse also wanted to discuss the idea of debt pooling in order to strengthen solidarity within the European Union, whilst the Member States are being offered loans at rates which are doubling.