Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras had a 40-minute meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel yesterday and discussed mainly the developments in the Greek economy. Greek Finance Minister Gikas Hardouvelis also attended the meeting.

The Prime Minister and Finance Minister informed Ms. Merkel about the developments in Greek economy, the second bond issuance and the increase in tourism and related revenues. The German chancellor was already informed about the latest developments and noted that Greece chose a difficult day to return to the markets showing that she shares the reason for the partial success of the bond issuance.

They also discussed about the relations with China on the occasion of the recent visits of Chinese Prime Minister and Chinese President, as well as about the banks and the overall implementation of the Greek program.

On Friday, Mr. Samaras will have a working lunch in Rome with Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.