Germany: there are contacts with SYRIZA

Adopting Mr Schauble's position, the German government spokesman underscored that the European Stability Mechanism is a last resort (ultima ratio) to safeguard the fiscal stability of the Eurozone, by refinancing member countries in times of need. Asscording to the German government, therefore, using ESM funds for investments would undermine its credibility.

As suitable measures for the economy, Mr Seibert pointed to reforms in development, competitiveness, and employment policies.

German government spokepersons, also verified that there open communications channels with Greek main opposition SYRIZA. Queried as to the meeting between Mr Tsipras and German deputy labor minister Jorg Asmussen, the ministry's spokesperson Dominik Erentrout confirmed it adding that Mr Asmussen's presence was not in his official capacity.

At this point of the briefing, German ministry spokesperson Martin Scheffer intervened noting that the German Embassy in Athens does not limit its conversations to the government, as part of its duties involves cultivating contacts,