国际英语新闻：Crisis offers chance for greater European integration: Barroso

BRUSSELS, Jan. 31 (Xinhua) -- The crisis that Europe has been going through may provide a new chance for greater European integration, said European Commission President Jose Manuel Durao Barroso on Monday.

"The deep crisis we have endured and which we are just starting to emerge from should not be a wasted crisis," said Barroso.

"It should offer an opportunity to make the bold and qualitative leap that is required towards greater European integration and a greater convergence of our policies," said the EC president at the opening session of a cohesion forum.

Barroso called for solidarity among member states as the region is still struggling from the ongoing debt crisis and leaders are vying for a bigger share of aid fund.

"Solidarity means directing certain investments towards the weaker amongst us and those who are bearing the brunt of the reforms," said Barroso.

Hailing the cohesion policy as a prime example of solidarity, the EC leader said cohesion will help alleviate economic, social and territorial inequalities.

It also helps to spread growth and prosperity throughout the whole European Union, therefore, it reduces imbalances and creates new opportunities, he added.