国际英语新闻：Greek PM seeks consensus on austerity measures and reforms with social partners

At the premiere of the Fair, Greek prime ministers traditionally deliver a speech on the government's economic policy for the following months.

Due to the crisis this year's speech at Thessaloniki, as well as remarks expected on the anniversary of the founding of the ruling socialist PASOK party on Sept. 3, will be analyzed with great interest by representatives of the business world and labor unions, who discussed the prospects of Greek economy with Papandreou on Thursday at his office at Maximou Mansion.

During Thursday's meeting, union leaders asked the government to force Greek banks to release funds to the real economy and households, to support small businesses, the unemployed and low income employees and pensioners.

They also demanded the prime minister avoid further increases in taxes and ask the EU and the IMF for more time and support to put the Greek national economy back to the path of recovery and development.