The Prime Minister Antonis Samaras discussed with the German Finance Minister.Wolfgang Schaeuble about the developments in the Greek economy and negotiations on the sustainability of the Greek debt on the occasion of the event of the Parliamentary Group of the European People’s Party on “Employment and Development 2014-2019”.

“When exactly the negotiations on the debt sustainability will take place is very crucial” a government source said explaining that it depends on the developments of the Greek economy. However, the discussions are scheduled to start in September and the decision will be taken in November. In the meantime, the government does not rule out the possibility to address again to the markets for borrowing-perhaps in July.

However, the government categorically denied reports that examine the exit to markets, if EU do not disburse the tranches of the two billion because Greece has failed to meet the prerequisites.

During his speech at the event Mr Samaras spoke of the need and conditions regarding the growth of the European economy and enhancing competitiveness. He stressed the need to reduce taxation without causing any problems to the fiscal adjustment.

At the same time he pointed out that a democracy cannot continue with lowering wages and that competitiveness can be enhanced through improved product quality and innovation. He added that wages can not remain permanently stable and that it is important to boost the competitiveness of the European economy, to reduce energy costs and stressed the need to differentiate both energy sources and supply routes of Europe. Finally, he said that the security of citizens in a democratic society is very important and pointed out that Europe should address together the issue of protecting its border.

Mr Samaras had the chance to talk with the European leaders about the next president of the European Commission and expressed the Greek government’s view according to which the will of European citizens should be respected. So, Mr Jean-Claude Juncker should become the new president.