The parliament in Germany, Europe's largest economy and effective paymaster, overwhelmingly backed a four-month extension of Greece's bailout programme by international creditors on Friday.

The "yes" vote - which came despite widespread scepticism in Germany over whether Athens will repay its debts - was expected after Chancellor Angela Merkel's left-right "grand coalition" and small opposition parties all voiced support.

The lower house vote was passed with 542 votes in favour, against 32 "no" votes and with 13 abstentions.