Top Berlin reactions before deadline

Spokesman Steffen Seibert said the Eurogroup setting is in complete control of the process, with no need for Angela Merkel to intervene

A spokesman for German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday reiterated that “the last few days have shown that it is perfectly possible to find a solution”, speaking ahead of a Bundestag vote to approve a latest Greek loan agreement extension.

Spokesman Steffen Seibert said the Eurogroup setting is in complete control of the process, with no need for Merkel to intervene, although the latter is in constant contact with German FinMin Wolfgang Schauble.

Meanwhile, German FM Frank-Walter Steinmeier appears to share a similar view over the recently concluded negotiations between Athens and its Eurozone creditors, while noting that the Greek government must explain to the partners how it will meet creditors’ expectations.

Speaking to the German tabloid Bild, Steinmeier simply noted that it’s now Athens’ turn. “Alexis Tsipras must explain to the EU how he plans to meet creditors’ expectations,” while adding ongoing talks must continue without malevolence or arrogance.