Brussels, 25/01/2010 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 25 February, the European Commission authorised the Greek support package for credit institutions until 30 June 2010. The support measures consist in a recapitalisation scheme, a guarantee scheme and support through the issuance of Greek state special purpose securities to credit institutions fulfilling the necessary conditions. The Commission found the prolongation of the measures, initially approved on 19 November 2008 and prolonged once on 18 September 2009, to be in line with its Guidance Communications on state aid to overcome the financial crisis. In particular, the extended measures ensure non-discriminatory access, are limited in time and scope, and payments made comply with market conditions and guarantees to reduce any possible distortion of competition occurring. In these conditions, the Commission has therefore concluded that they represent an appropriate means of remedying a serious disturbance in the Greek economy, and as such are compatible with provisions in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). (O.L./transl.fl)