German Bundestag approves third Greek bailout

19 Avqust 2015 16:54 (UTC+04:00)

German MPs have overwhelmingly approved a third bailout deal for Greece, despite opposition from some conservative politicians.

The final vote was 454-113, with 18 politicians choosing to abstain, following concern that Chancellor Angela Merkel could face dissent from conservatives in her ruling bloc.

German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said earlier today that it would be "irresponsible" for his fellow MPs to reject the bailout, as it was an opportunity to "seize the chance" for a new beginning in Greece.

But some German MPs were worried about whether the International Monetary Fund would back the deal along with them.