Deadline Slips Further in Greece's Bailout Talks

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — A Greek government official is conceding that negotiations on new bailout measures could be delayed for weeks following disagreement on proposed labor reforms and other issues.

Greece and its bailout lenders had aimed at reaching a deal before the end of last year, but the government described labor market liberalization proposals made by the creditors as “irrational.” It argues the country could not endure another spike in unemployment with nearly one in four Greeks out of work.

Government spokesman Dimitris Tzanakopoulos told private Skai television the two sides would have “a clearer picture” of where negotiations stand at a eurozone finance ministers’ meeting on Jan. 26.