Washington
#Tags:
GreeceAcropolis MuseumRemarks of Secretary Jacob J. Lew at the Acropolis Museum, in Athens Greece
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
I would like to thank Prime Minister Samaras for his gracious hospitality in Athens. I also enjoyed meeting with Finance Minister Stournaras. This is my third trip to Europe as Treasury Secretary, and I welcome the opportunity to hear directly from our Greek friends, because Greece has had a tough road to recovery over the last few years.
We have been following developments here closely, and we know that Greece has passed through a very difficult period of adjustment and reform. We recognize the difficult decisions and shared sacrifices of the last few years, as well as the challenges that remain.
I am particularly pleased to see that your government is close to completing the current program review and taking the difficult actions necessary to sustain momentum for your economic reforms.
Of course, the road ahead is still challenging. Continued reform will be essential to laying the foundation for sustained growth.
The U.S. economy is now recovering from its own financial crisis – where we had to take tough actions to stabilize our system.
We know you are working hard to set Greece on a path of sustainable growth and prosperity for the generations to come. After all that Greece has accomplished, I know that you don’t want to leave this important work unfinished.
Engagement with Europe remains at the top of my agenda, because U.S. jobs and growth are inextricably linked to Europe achieving growth and prosperity. Moreover, growth in Europe and Asia is critical to the world economy. As you know, I was just in Moscow, where finance ministers and labor ministers sat side by side and reiterated their commitment to boost growth and improve prospects for job creation – a key focus for the road ahead.
I am delighted to be here and to be able to talk directly with you and to hear about your plans for moving forward.
Source: Treasury Public Affairs