US president calls new Greek PM, pledges support - The Best from Greece

US President Barack Obama spoke by phone Monday with new Greek Prime Minister Lukas Papademos to express support for the troubled European economy, the White House said.

Obama called «to thank him for taking on such a significant responsibility at a critical moment, and to express US support for Greece's efforts to implement its commitments under its EU-IMF program,» the White House said.

Greece needs the 8-billion-euro ($10.8 billion) installment from the 110-billion-euro European Union-International Monetary Fund bailout program before state coffers run dry on December 15.

Obama reiterated that Washington «will stand steadfastly with Greece, a friend and ally, through these difficult times."

Papademos had earlier Monday met in Brussels with European Commission chief Jose Manuel Barroso in talks to unlock the EU-IMF bailout funds needed to avert default next month.[AFP]