Greece must cooperate with Europe, IMF: US ambassador

ATHENS: Greece must cooperate with Europe and the IMF to draw up a plan of reforms consistent with the country's international obligations, the US ambassador to Athens said Friday.

"The United States believes that it is very important for the Greek government to work cooperatively with its European colleagues, as well as with the IMF," US Ambassador David Pearce said after two days of talks with new Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and other Greek officials.

Tsipras, who came to power last week pledging to end austerity sacrifices in Greece, is expected to present his hard-left government's agenda to parliament on Sunday after a flurry of meetings with European leaders this week.

US President Barack Obama warned over the weekend against "squeezing" countries weakened by recession, such as Greece.

US Treasury deputy assistant secretary Daleep Singh is currently in Athens for talks with Greek officials.

But US ambassador Pearce insisted on Friday that "Greece should continue to make administrative and structural reforms and exercise fiscal prudence."

He added that Athens "must make reforms that make foreign investment in Greece more attractive so the country can meet its international obligations and return to prosperity."