The German economist and ECB executive board member Jörg Asmussen has requested that Greece focuses its efforts in legislating and implementing its outstanding reforms. Mr. Asmussen also praised his cooperation with the Minister of Finances Yannis Stournaras.
On his way out of the Ecofin session, Mr. Asmussen commented on the negotiations with Greece and stressed that the legislation and implementation of the necessary reforms are more important than addressing the fiscal gap.
Mr. Asmussen believes that if Greece is able to carry out and implement these legislative initiatives, it will make significant steps towards demonstrating to its lender of its intention and ability to remain faithful to the consolidation program.
Regarding the 1 billion euro loan installment which Greece was meant collect in the summer, Mr. Asmussen responded that the funds will be available as soon as an agreement is made over the fate of Greek defense industry EAS.
