The classic country song by Tammy Wynette, Stand By Your Man, could have been the background music to the scene played out by U.S. President Barack Obama and Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou.

During their recent meeting in Washington, President Obama said the U.S. would "stand by" its ally during these troubled times, and back European proposals to crack down on currency speculation, which the Greek leader blamed for his country's debt crisis.
At the same time, the president announced that Greece has been added to a list of countries whose citizens do not need visas for tourist visits to the U.S.
"Greece's participation in the visa waiver programme will strengthen security in both our countries," he said. "And whether it is to do business or to visit family and friends, it will now be easier for our Greek friends to visit the United States."