Merkel hints at extending terms for Greece

ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 23 (UPI) -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel suggested in Athens she would support extending terms on Greece's international bailout loan.

"There's certainly a discussion about whether to consider extending the running time of the Greek program," Merkel said in a press conference with Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou.

"It's one point on the table," she said.

The EUobserver reported Wednesday that Merkel noted the international loan provided to Ireland last year was a seven-year program, while Greek was given three years to repay its loan.

Merkel commended the Greek government's efforts to tighten their budget.

"Greece has started to put its house in order. We have been watching this with satisfaction because we know that this requires political boldness," she said.

Papandreou said he appreciated the chancellor's help. "Angela, I want to thank you very much for what you have done, your support and your friendship," he said.