“The implementation of tough measures is the only way, since Greece decided to remain in the euro zone,” said German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble.
Schaeuble spoke after a meeting of European Union finance ministers (ECOFIN) held in Brussels, saying that, “The mission to bring Greece on a sustainable, competitive growth path — under the condition to remain in the euro zone, I admit — is long-lasting and politically ambitious… as long as those who have the responsibility in Greece wish to achieve that.”
The German finance minister also spoke about Monday’s Eurogroup and commented on reactions by Greek Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos: “Mr. Tsakalotos said he feels he is stuck between two elephants. He rather sees the International Monetary Fund as an elephant, but I do not know who the second elephant could be.”
Schaeuble also criticized the Greek government on its attitude in the negotiations of the second bailout program review: “It would be good that Greek leaders stop telling Greek citizens that “certain foreigners are to blame for Greece’s problems.”
Regarding the aftermath of Mondays meeting of euro zone finance ministers and the failure to complete the second bailout program review, Schaeuble estimated that, “It will take more time for the completion of the Greek program evaluation.”
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