Finance ministers, EU officials express hope for deal as Eurogroup gets underway
European Union Economic and Monetary Affairs Olli Rehn has said that it is “essential” for eurozone finance minister to agreed on a solution to Greece’s debt sustainability issue as they gather in Brussels for the third time in two weeks
“It is essential to take a decision on the disbursement of the next tranche,» Rehn said as he arrived for Monday’s meeting. «Greece has delivered, now it’s delivery time for the Eurogroup and the IMF,» he added.
Rehn said Monday’s talks were «important for Greece» and «important for Europe» to «take a political decision on disbursement in the course of today.”
Greek Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras appeared hopeful of a deal on Monday. “I am sure we will get a mutually beneficial agreement today,” he told journalists.
Spanish Finance Minister Luis De Guindos said the ministers were “very close” to an agreement.
Austria’s Finance Minister Maria Fekter suggested that there were just “a few centimeters” to reach a deal.
“We should assume our responsibilities and leave here with and agreement,” said French Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici. “Greece has met its commitments.”
Dutch Finance Minister Jeroen Dijsselbloem ruled out writing off bilateral loans to Greece as he arrived at the meeting.
