Tsipras, Juncker discuss bailout as Moscovici to visit
With the government now set on securing a “political decision” at the upcoming summit of eurozone finance ministers on December 5, as a conclusion of the bailout review remains out of reach, Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras discussed the progress of economic reforms Friday with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.
EC spokesman Margaritis Schinas confirmed that the two men had spoken by phone and that European Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici will be in Athens on Monday for an official visit.
Speaking to reporters as Greek lawmakers prepare to debate a series of draft bills outlining further bailout measures, government sources Friday expressed conviction that a political agreement would be reached at the December 5 Eurogroup.
As for bailout negotiations with Greece’s creditors, which have been continuing by email since foreign envoys left Athens earlier this week, the same sources said the two sides continue to disagree as regards labor laws and fiscal targets. They said the legislation may not go to a vote before the end of this year.
Tsipras insisted this week that Athens will not yield to “irrational demands” of creditors but Greek officials will have to make some concessions to secure concrete measures for debt relief.
