NEWS

Prime Minister Pahor at the Slovenian Economic Summit

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, attended the Slovenian Economic Summit at Cankarjev Dom Cultural and Congress Centre, appearing as the keynote speaker and participating in a discussion on key problems and topical issues regarding the Slovenian economy.

 

(Photo: Bor Slana/Bobo)

 

Referring to the present crisis and uncertainty, Mr Pahor said that this difficult period of time, although apparently unpredictable and unstable, should be used as an opportunity, given that Slovenia is strong enough to emerge victoriously from the current situation.  However, in order to achieve this goal, we must particularly focus on a clear hierarchy of priorities in resolving the difficulties encountered. The Prime Minister emphasised the new development policy to be realised through a restructuring of the economy. To this end, the Government will shortly prepare a package of measures in order to provide stability of the financial system and improve the situation in the real sector. In his speech, Mr Pahor also explained that reducing burdens on the economy was indispensable for achieving this objective, while measures will primarily aim to support healthy economic entities which have development potential and the capacity to compete in foreign markets.

 

(Photo: Bor Slana/Bobo)

 

According to the Prime Minister, the greatest problem is the liquidity of companies. Therefore, the Government will adopt a regulation this week on criteria and conditions for granting loans to companies and increasing the reserve fund for Slovenian companies. On Wednesday this week, the Government will also appoint the Strategic Economic Council, which will draft a series of measures for resolving corporate liquidity problems. These measures will be drafted by a crisis group of ministers, and in the second half of December these measures will also be discussed by the Economic and Social Council. Another novelty is an amendment to the Foreign Affairs Act, which is currently being drafted. It will enable the Slovenian diplomatic corps to do more for the development of the Slovenian export economy in the future.

 

Irrespective of negative economic trends, the Government will do everything in its competence to maintain positive economic growth in the coming period, while signs of stabilisation can already be observed in the international environment.  The Prime Minister also expressed his belief that, although the situation indeed appears problematic, Slovenia is nevertheless capable of resolving these problems effectively.