The eurozone's leading official has effectively given Greece an ultimatum to request an extension to the country's bailout programme.

Greece has resisted an extension of the current programme which it wants scrapped, and has instead asked for a "bridging programme" to support its finances.

Speaking after a meeting of eurozone finance ministers wrapped up early, Jeroen Dijsselbloem said another meeting is possible on Friday but it will be "up to the Greeks".

He said a "positive outcome" is still possible if Greece asks for an extension of its current bailout programme. He insisted there is "flexibility" in the current programme and an extension is "feasible".

Greece's new government blames the current bailout programme for inflicting budget austerity on the country and has promised its electors it would get rid of it.

Eurozone creditors, however, say the current programme should be extended to get more time to agree on a lasting solution.

Mr Dijsselbloem said: "My strong preference is and still is to get an extension of the programme, and I think it is still feasible."

Greece's finance minister said the ultimatum was not helpful, but added that Athens was willing to find a solution within two days.

Yanis Varoufakis said Greece is ready to "do whatever it takes reach agreement in next two days".

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