Greece to focus on extroversion, innovation, Samaras says welcoming Merkel to Athens

Greece's next steps will focus on extroversion, innovation and the commerciability of its products, Prime Minister Antonis Samaras said on Friday during a young entrepreneurs' forum in Athens, which he addressed jointly with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Samaras referred to the sacrifices of the Greek people stressing the importance of creating a society that produces instead of consuming.

He also underlined that Greece has distinguished manpower that could render the country an extroversion oriented centre of entrepreneurship and innovation.

"When Greeks make an effort, they succeed," the premier said.

On her part, Merkel said she is aware of the difficulties Greeks are experiencing. "There are so many opportunities and possibilities that one can make use of and rebuild things. There are the traditional sectors, but one can also aim for new groups and follow new paths... Our aim is to boost new businesses".
"Greece is gaining more potential despite the difficulties, despite high unemployment and the fact that many people still do no see any change," she added.