EU ready to assist Greece, considering options

BRUSSELS: The EU says it has developed a set of options to help Greece overcome its deep financial crisis.

Officials did not elaborate on the details of the plans, but said Saturday that the options would be presented next week to European economic and finance ministers.

A possible deal involving guarantees for loans to Greece would have to be worked out between Athens and individual EU nations. Officials emphasized that Athens has not yet requested such aid.

EU Economy Commissioner Olli Rehn also has said on several occasions that the EU is prepared to propose a European mechanism for coordinated action if requested by Greek authorities.



On Friday, Greece said it had exceeded its deficit-cutting targets in January and February, ¡¬fad of a key fiscal asses½ment by the European Commission.