Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras visited Brussels yesterday following an invitation by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. The two officials held talks - and were later joined by Eurogroup chief Jeroen Dijsselbloem - aimed at sealing an agreement with Greece's creditors. Early this morning, Tsipras told reporters that Greece's reform plan “remains the only realistic plan on the table."

The Greek PM referred to the constructive stance of the European Commission, noting that there had been progress, particularly with respect to Greece's primary surplus targets, and stated that talks would continue over the next days.

However, referring to calls for more austerity reforms in order to unlock bailout funds, including further pension cuts and VAT increases on power bills, which he indicated that Greece could not accept, Tsipras acknowledged the differences that remain to be bridged between the two sides.

The European Commission said in a statement that there had been progress during the talks: "It was a good, constructive meeting. Progress was made in understanding each other's positions on the basis of various proposals. It was agreed that they will meet again. Intense work will continue."