ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greek lawmakers have approved a government motion seeking authorization for reform proposals as a basis for negotiations for a third bailout in talks with international creditors this weekend.
The 300-member parliament passed the motion by majority vote, but Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras saw some of the lawmakers of his left-wing Syriza party vote "present" instead of approving the motion — a form of abstention indicating dissent from their own party line.
Speaking to Parliament earlier, Tsipras acknowledged the proposals, which include harsh austerity measures such as tax hikes and cuts to pension costs, was far from his party's pre-election promises. But he said it was the only chance for Greece to win a much-needed bailout that will include measures to address the country's debt and will provide adequate financing.
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