BERLIN
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has praised economic reforms of the Greek government but underlined that talks on more loans would not be an easy job.
“Greece has made significant process,” Merkel said on Friday, after a working lunch in Berlin with Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras.
“I would like to stress that there is light at the end of the tunnel," Merkel said, adding that Germany would continue to support Greece in its efforts to overcome the crisis.
German Chancellor praised the Greek government for reducing the national debt and preparing a budget that now predicts a surplus. But she also underlined the importance of pushing through difficult reforms, saying that the country is already enjoying the fruits of the economic program.
The troika of Greece's international creditors is due to visit Athens next month for a review of Greek government’s economic program and progress in reforms. A clearance by the troika is required for Greece to receive further loans under the bailout agreement. Merkel told journalists on Friday that these talks would not be an easy job.
German Chancellor has been under strong criticism in Greece for imposing austerity measures.
Recalling that Greece is to take over the EU’s term presidency next year, Merkel said that they will cooperate with Athens on steps to stimulate the economy and take measures against youth unemployment in Europe.
Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has underlined that his government has met its commitments and was expecting now from its European partners to deliver their promise under the current bailout agreement. "There will not be a need for a new memorandum or new money,” Samaras stressed.
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