Greece clears final reform hurdle before new bailout talks

Greece's Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras speaks during an emergency parliament session in Athens, Thursday, July 23, 2015. Greek lawmakers launched a late-night debate Wednesday on further reforms demanded by international creditors in return for a third multi-billion-euro bailout, with attention focusing on government dissenters who have vowed to reject the measures. AP/Thanassis Stavrakis

ATHENS, Greece — Greek lawmakers have overwhelmingly approved a new batch of reforms demanded by the country's international creditors in return for a third multi-billion euro bailout.

The vote followed a whirlwind debate that ended at 4 a.m. Thursday (0100 GMT).

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras once again suffered a revolt among his own radical left lawmakers, but had no trouble passing the draft legislation with the backing of pro-European opposition parties.

The reforms were the final prerequisite before Greece can start negotiations with creditors on a third bailout worth around 85 billion euros ($93 billion).

Show comments