Merkel arrives in Athens for two-day visit

German Chancellor Angela Merkel arrived in Athens for a two-day visit on Thursday. 

Merkel, who landed at Athens International Airport at 6.15 p.m., is scheduled to meet with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras at Maximos Mansion at 6.10 p.m. The two leaders will then hold a joint press conference at 7.40 p.m.

In an exclusive statement to Kathimerini ahead of the visit, Merkel expressed her support for Greece and the country's reform effort, saying that the country can "continue to count on its partnership and friendship with Germany." 
During her visit, the chancellor is expected to stress that Greece's continuation of reforms might be onerous but are necessary for its full recovery.

Merkel is also expected to reiterate her support for the Prespes name deal, which is currently being discussed by the parliament of the Former Yugoslav Republic of...