George is shooting down scenarios about premature elections

Although intense speculation developed and even ministers voiced their concerns, George Papandreou eventually ruled out the possibility of elections and a reshuffle of the government , speaking at the emergency cabinet meeting.

The fact that the meeting was suddenly scheduled for Sunday evening, had fueled a lively discussion on the possible tendency of Mr. Papandreou to adopt dramatic political moves.

Mr. Papandreou responded to rumours of a reshuffle or premature elections during his initial speech at the cabinet meeting, stating that "these scenarios need to stop, we have a lot of work to do".

Referring to the decisions taken in Brussels, the prime minister stated that the government fought very hard and that the sacrifices of the Greek people are paying off. At the same time, he asked for more intensive efforts by everyone and underlined that the goal is for the country to depend on its own strengths and slowly leave the patronizing shadow of economic supervision.

Mr. Papandreou described the progress of the loan extension plans and the reduction of interest rates during the recent summit as a battle won, adding though, that "we are still in the middle of the storm".

The prime minister asked for creative criticism from the opposition and said they should point out the evils that plague society as a whole.

"We will manage to avoid losing a whole generation", Mr. Papandreou underlined optimistically.