Sources suggested that Samaras asked Draghi to extend the maturity of 20.6 billion euros of Greek government bonds held by the ECB. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the Greek premier asked for a five-year extension.

Samaras discusses Greek program, bond maturity with Draghi Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has concluded his meeting with European Central Bank President Mario Draghi in Frankfurt. Sources suggested that Samaras asked Draghi to extend the maturity of 20.6 billion euros of Greek government bonds held by the ECB. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the Greek premier asked for a five-year extension. “Both parties agreed that Greece has already taken significant steps towards budgetary consolidation and economic modernization but that major challenges remain,” the ECB said in a statement. “The Prime Minister assured the ECB delegation of his and his government’s commitment to getting the adjustment program back on track and continuing the necessary reforms for Greece to regain competitiveness and put its economy and public finances on a solid footing.” No further comments were made by Samaras or Draghi.

ekathimerini.com , Tuesday September 11, 2012 (18:38)