Readout from a Treasury Spokesperson on Secretary Lew’s Meetings in Europe on Greece (July 16, 2015)

July 16, 2015

FRANKFURT, BERLIN, AND PARIS – U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew today concluded a series of meetings with his European counterparts on the ongoing situation in Greece.

This morning in Berlin, Germany, Secretary Lew met with German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaueble.  This afternoon in Paris, France, the Secretary met with French Finance Minister Michel Sapin.

In his meetings, Secretary Lew reinforced that the agreement between Greece and its creditors is an important step forward, which provides a basis for restoring trust among the parties and creates the conditions for a path forward for Greece within the Eurozone.  He also underscored the importance of achieving debt sustainability in the upcoming negotiations.  Secretary Lew said such a path is in the best interests of Greece, Europe, and the global economy.  He stated that he will remain engaged with all parties during this important period.

During his trip, Secretary Lew also spoke by telephone with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos and underscored the importance of implementing the agreement fully.

On Wednesday in Frankfurt, Germany, Secretary Lew also met with European Central Bank President Mario Draghi.

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http://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0118.aspx