Readout of the President's Phone Calls with President Sarkozy and Chancellor Merkel

The President spoke with French President Nicolas Sarkozy and, separately, with German Chancellor Angela Merkel this afternoon about the latest developments in the eurozone crisis. Noting the significant steps taken at the July 21 summit of leaders of the euro area and the importance of their implementation, the President welcomed the continued leadership of President Sarkozy and Chancellor Merkel in addressing the challenges facing Europe's economy. The President also consulted with President Sarkozy and Chancellor Merkel on the situation in Syria. The leaders condemned the Assad regime's continued use of indiscriminate violence against the Syrian people. They welcomed the August 3 presidential statement by the UN Security Council condemning Syria's actions, but also agreed to consider additional steps to pressure the Assad regime and support the Syrian people.