The Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Angela Merkel will visit Athens tomorrow (October 9), following an invitation by Prime Minister Antonis Samaras. In brief statements outside the Maximos Mansion on October 5, the premier said that German Chancellor’s acceptance of his invitation to visit Athens is a "very positive development," adding that "we will welcome her as befits a leader of a major power and a friendly country."

Government Spokesperson Simos Kedikoglou noted that this visit will contribute to the "reinforcement of traditional relations between the two countries and will be a further step for future European decisions."

• PM’s Interview with Handelsblatt

Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview with the German newspaper Handelsblatt published on October 5, Samaras said that "Greek democracy stands before what is perhaps its greatest challenge."

The government is waging a battle on all fronts for the nation's credibility and its future so that the sacrifices made by Greeks aren't lost, Samaras noted, adding that "the citizens know that this government is Greece's last chance."