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Quite surprisingly and under strong pressure from PASOK members for early elections, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou said he would raise the issue of ratifying the new contract for financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund, the European Union and the European Central Bank at a referendum and a vote of confidence in parliament.

"We have confidence in the citizens, their order will bind us all," he said, adding, "We say no to the elections now because it will be an escape and will lead to discord."

In his speech at the meeting of the parliamentary group of PASOK, George Papandreou defended the decisions taken at the European summit in Brussels. He said that they predicted "a new era for Greece and Europe" in response to the "preachers of misery" and all those who undermined the democratic framework of government functions.

"Nothing of all this would have happened if this parliamentary group had not taken a responsible position just a week ago. I would like to thank each member of the parliamentary group who I respect for their courage, perseverance and endurance," said the Greek Prime Minister. Earlier, it became clear that the deputies would not be allowed to speak during the meeting. Some of them were planning to protest in the form of non-attendance in the hall but later, they gave up their intention.

A while ago, they announced from New Democracy that its leader Antonis Samaras has requested a meeting with President Karolos Papoulias. It is assumed that it will take place tomorrow morning.