PM Samaras, Merkel discuss Greek reforms progress, EU developments

Progress in the reforms in Greece, bilateral issues, the general economic situation "which is very important for Germany, too", as well as developments in the EU "where we will have achieved a substantial degree of coordination by mid-June", were on the agenda of talks between German chancellor Angela Merkel and visiting Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, the chancellor said on Tuesday, ahead of a meeting with Samaras in Berlin.

Samaras, in turn, underlined the "great effort" being made in Greece "with sacrifices by the Greek people" in order for the country "to regain its credibility and the confidence of both the European peoples and the markets".

"In that direction, we are taking systematic measures and have voted in a series of laws that ensure this course," Samaras said, adding that the priority is to secure liquidity, which he described as the "blood of the economy" which, together with investments, "can bring the much needed growth to a country ravaged by a huge problem, that of unemployment, and particularly unemployment among young people".

Samaras added that the discussion with Merkel would also encompass issues pertaining to Europe which, he noted, "is proceeding decisively, evolving, with a new union being created in every sector".

Sources said after the meeting, which was closed to the press, that Greek premier Samaras briefed Merkel on progress in applying reforms and stressed the importance of pursuing the revival of the economy and the creation of new jobs, something that will be achieved with liquidity and investments. He also noted the importance of dealing with tax evasion and treating all tax evaders on the basis of law without discrimination between citizens, to restore the public's sense of justice being met.

Samaras told a congress organised by Die Welt newspaper on Monday evening, for which he was in Berlin, that it is necessary for Europe to take big and brave decisions, possibly beyond the usual, in the face of new global challenges. He also pointed out the geostrategic issues special to the European south that had to be taken into account in the union's planning for the future.

SOURCE: ATHENS NEWS AGENCY