German official says Tsipras criticism unhelpful

A German official has said criticism by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras of the preliminary bailout deal with creditors isn't helpful.

Tsipras told state TV that "the policies imposed on us were irrational" but the deal was the best Greece could get. Creditors are demanding that the Greek Parliament pass initial legislation on Wednesday.

Germany led eurozone countries pushing a hard line. Deputy finance minister Jens Spahn criticized Tsipras' comments, telling ARD television: "This is not just about saving (money); it is about this country needing an idea of how it wants grow economically again, how it wants to be successful, change structures and win trust."

He added: "If someone then says, 'I don't actually stand by what I'm doing now,' I find that difficult. That doesn't necessarily create trust." [AP]