French Prime Minister Manuel Valls promised Greece more help in overcoming its financial crisis, with investment and assistance with administrative reforms.
The French delegation arrived in Greece on Thursday and held extensive talks with Greek counterparts on Friday.
“Your visit confirms the close relation of cooperation and understanding between our countries” said Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras when welcoming Prime Minister Manuel Valls.
The Greek Prime Minister noted that Mr. Valls is visiting Greece at a time when the country need to plain for the steps to return to growth and social justice. “Your support also in this new era will be equally important” Mr. Tsipras said.
“You can count on us” Mr. Valls replied to the Greek Prime Minister’s comments.
The French side has expressed its interest on the massive privatizations expected to take place under the agreement between Greece and its international creditors, in exchange for more bailout funds.
In addition to that, the refugee crisis is also a concern both countries share. France has expressed its intention to receive 400 refugees per month from Greece, in line with the European relocation scheme.
Mr. Valls will also meet with the head of the main opposition in Greece, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, at the ambassador’s residence, later on Friday.
French minister of Finance, Michel Sapin, who is accompanying Mr. Valls, said the period of difficulties for Greece is not over but there is progress. He added he believes Greece is entering a new period, an era of growth, development and investments.
Greek Finance minister, Mr. Euclid Tsakalotos said that President Francois Hollande and Mr. Sapin himself have helped Greece greatly. He added that during their talks with Mr. Sapin the main topic was how Greece will return to growth with social justice, pointing out it is a top priority to confront corruption and tax evasion.