Prime Minister Antonis Samaras visited Berlin, upon an invitation to take part as keynote speaker in a closed-doors business conference organized by the German newspaper Die Welt, on January 7.

The following day, the premier met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, with talks focusing mostly on Greece’s progress in implementing its reform programme, as well as developments in the European Union.

"I would like to make clear up front that our country is undertaking great efforts that are linked with great sacrifices to get things back on track," Samaras said during a brief appearance alongside the German Chancellor, adding that "we are trying to win back credibility among the peoples of Europe and financial markets."

On her part, Merkel stressed the need for greater economic integration across Europe.

Prime Minister.GR: Statements by Greek PM and German Chancellor following their meeting (in Greek)