Greek hopes of reform leeway face test in Berlin

(AP) The new Greek prime minister's hopes of winning more time from creditors to implement reforms and spending cuts face a tough test as he meets German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Prime Minister Antonis Samaras is expected in Berlin on Friday, a day after Merkel and French President Francois Hollande pressed Greece to keep pushing through painful reforms.

Samaras has argued Greece should have more time to complete reforms that are a condition of it continuing to receive bailout loans. Without them, Greece would be forced into a chaotic default and could be forced out of the eurozone.

A German official speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the informal Merkel-Hollande talks said the leaders agreed credibility is key to overcoming the crisis and they would underline that in meetings with Samaras.