Tsipras speaks by phone with Merkel on Thursday

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras spoke by phone on Thursday morning with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, ahead of an upcoming EU summit in Bratislava.

A press release circulated by Tsipras’ office said the discussion touched on the challenges facing Europe in terms of security, the economy and the ongoing refugee crisis.

The Greek PM also referred to a recent EuroMed conference he organized in Athens, whereas the press release said both leaders agreed that the upcoming summit offers an opportunity to promote a “positive agenda” for the Union’s future goals and prospects.