Prime Minister Antonis Samaras received yesterday the President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso, who visited Athens for talks focusing mostly on economy and Greece’s reform efforts. During a joint press conference, following their meeting, Barroso send a message of solidarity to the Greek people, urging for the acceleration of the reform programme.

"My message to Greeks is that they are not alone," said Barroso, acknowledging the extremely difficult sacrifices made by them. "You, in Greece, with our support, need to rebuild your country.[...] The key word here is: deliver, deliver, deliver. [...] Words are not enough, actions are more important" continued Barroso, who showed himself reassured that the coalition government will honour its pledges towards implementing undertaken commitments.

On his part, Samaras underlined his government’s determination to move ahead quickly with necessary reforms and assured Barroso that Greece will respect its commitment.

Samaras also appealed for a "coordinated European solution" concerning the grave issue of illegal migration in Greece, due to its location on the EU’s external border, with Barroso pledging that efforts would be made to find a "comprehensive solution" on a EU level.

EU Audiovisual Service: Press Conference [VIDEO]