The participation of our country in the eurozone is a guarantee for the country's monetary stability. It is a driver of financial prosperity.

The financial crisis in our country is not a passing storm. Given the size of the problems, our national effort will not be completed in 2012. It will take many years and will require the efforts and insistence of several governments.

I think it's often discussed that leaving the Euro is an option for Greece. I think this is really not an option.

I am personally convinced - and I think the Greek people share this belief in a fundamental way - that we can achieve fiscal consolidation more effectively and we can restore competitiveness in a more fundamental and permanent way within the euro area than outside.

Greece could default on its debts and even exit currency bloc if it cannot deliver reforms.

The government is determined to continue the process of fiscal consolidation and structural reform in order to secure sound public finances and improve the country's international competitiveness.

I think the facts reveal that the European partners have taken extraordinary measures to help Greece address its problems.