Merkel: There is a positive climate for Greece now

The meeting between Merkel and Samaras took place this morning with the Greek delegation absolutely satisfied with yesterday's Summit. It was held in "Greek territory", as the German chancellor decided to go to the offices of the permanent Greek Delegation in Brussels.

 

Merkel showed particular interest in developments in structural changes and measures and was informed on the progress of the negotiations with the Troika by Finance minister I. Stournaras, Development minister K. Hatzidakis and Finance deputy minister H. Staikouras.

 

Merkel told Samaras about the positive climate for Greece that now exists in Europe, which she herself has identified in personal contacts with her European counterparts. The two leaders agreed to continue their close contacts in the coming days.

 

The prime minister’s international contacts will continue as the president of the French Republic is expected in Athens in the coming period. Reportedly, during the Summit Samaras invited Hollande to visit our country and the French leader accepted the invitation.

 

The climate in the Greek delegation is very good and it is considered that the issue of the disbursement of the tranche has already been resolved.

 

A government source said that most of the points have been agreed upon. There is always a divergence on labour issues, but the Greek side considers that the agreement will come soon. The Greek government wants the three-year-periods to remain as they are but the Troika is asking for their elimination. Disagreements also exist on the issue of compensations due to layoffs of a certain amount and above. The government places their limit at 3,000 euros and the Troika at 2,000.

 

As soon as the more recent issues are settled, the measures will come to a vote in parliament. If voted for, the procedures that will follow might be sped up; that is, instead of going for the regular Eurogroup on November 12, the Greek government might seek an urgent one on Oct. 29 in order to receive the green light for the disbursement of the tranche. The State budget will be submitted before the Eurogroup meeting.