The meetings in Paris between Greek ministers and the troika began on Tuesday, with the Minister of Finances Gikas Hardouvelis commenting that the discussions have a long way to go.
After the first, five-hour meeting between the two sides, Mr. Hardouvelis reported that the creditors “recognize” the sacrifices of the Greek people, but refused to answer when asked whether the possibility of further debt relief was discussed. The European Commission representative Declan Costello also stated that the “constructive talks” would continue on Wednesday.
According to an unnamed Minister of Finances officer, the Greek envoy presented data on the budget implementation during the first 7 months of 2014, which illustrate the extent of Greek sacrifices and that the progress of the reform program is within goals. When asked about the troika’s response, the officer noted that “the troika has not taken a stand”.
