Athens

Following meetings with Greek officials in Athens, U.S. Under Secretary for the Treasury for International Affairs Lael Brainard on Wednesday said she had conveyed the support of the United States and U.S. President Barack Obama for the Greek people, noting that they were making heavy sacrifies as they carried out reforms to reduce the country’s debt and deficit.

“Greece is an old friend and ally of the United States. As President Obama said, we are fully aware of the Greek people’s difficult sacrifices at this crucial time. The Greek people are carrying out major reforms in order to restore competitiveness and a sustainable fiscal position. We stand by the side of the Greek people as they continue their commitment to the road of reforms,” Brainard said.

During her visit to Athens accompanied by U.S. Treasury’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Europe and Eurasia Christopher Smart, Brainard held talks with interim finance minister Georgios Zannias concerning Greece and Europe on Tuesday and met the leaders of Greek political parties.