Tsipras-Merkel-Hollande agreed to accelerate reforms (video)

The general sentiment was to wrap up negotiations as quickly as possible and keep Greece in the euro area

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande for discussions that ended early on Thursday. The three leaders agreed to intensify talks and bridge the gap that would allow Greece to return to growth with social cohesion and a sustainable debt, said sources from the Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) government of Greece.

Following the meeting, Tsipras said: “I think that Europe’s political leadership has understood that a sustainable solution should be given to Greece as well as the chance to return to growth with social cohesion, security, and a sustainable debt amid a perspective that would give back security and stability, not only in Greece but throughout Europe.”

Germany’s negotiators may now be willing to accept one large reform to unblock a further tranche to Greece. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” said Merkel. “The goal is to keep Greece in the eurozone.” She appeared more willing to appease the Greek negotiating team than German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble.

On his part, Hollande said: “Let’s work, go fast and conclude” while agreeing with Merkel that things should not drag out.