The Eurogroup noted progress in talks with the Greek government, but also cited a distance in any conclusive deal to allow Athens access to 7.2 billion euros in bailout funds from the remaining program.

The comments, statements and speculation surrounding the outcome of Monday’s Eurogroup meeting and its repercussions has dominated the news in Greece and much of the eurozone over the past week.

In one very succinct comment, Eurogroup head Jeroen Dijsselbloem said that any referendum in Greece (with an unknown question, so far) would delay the disbursement of any funds, pending the results of the poll.

Cross your fingers?

Greece has made progress with creditors but “more time and effort” is needed to reach a deal so the cash-strapped country can get vital rescue money, the eurozone’s top official said Monday.

In a press conference afterwards, Dijsselbloem said talks have “advanced” and that “important progress” has been recorded. Nevertheless, he said “more time is needed to bridge remaining gaps” to reach a comprehensive agreement.

“There are time constraints and liquidity constraints and hopefully we will reach an agreement before time runs out and before money runs out,” he added.
European Commisser Pierre Moscovici, on his part, referred to a “new spirit” in discussions.
“We are seeing some convergence on a certain number of subjects, but there are still major gaps to overcome before we reach an agreement.”