French President Francois Hollande has urged Greece to prove it can pass reforms demanded by international creditors, after talks with Greek leader Antonis Samaras. Mr Samaras has been appealing for more time to introduce the reforms.
But Mr Hollande said no further decision could be taken until European ministers consider a major report on Greece’s finances, due in September.  Donors including the EU insist Greece has to make major spending cuts. These are needed if Greece is to secure the next tranche of its bailout.
The BBC’s Mark Lowen in Athens says the Greek government is under pressure to win concessions from Europe to placate the tired nation and lessen the likelihood of a destabilising period of social unrest.
Mr Samaras is seeking an extension of up to two years for the necessary reforms, in order to provide Greece with the growth needed to improve its public finances.
via BBC
