ATHENS, Greece (AP) — A Greek official says talks are under way on the formation of a temporary coalition government to ensure the country doesn’t go bankrupt in the next few weeks. But the main opposition party says it’s not part of the discussions.

Government spokesman Elias Mossialos told state television that talks have begun and that the name of the new prime minister should be known by Monday, in which case Prime Minister George Papandreou would resign.

Mossialos later told The Associated Press that his remarks regarding a new premier expressed "a personal wish" and are not an official announcement.

Conservative opposition leader Antonis Samaras is meeting with Greek president Karolos Papoulias, but his party denies any talks are under way with the Socialists.