STA.si

Ljubljana, 19 September (STA) - Finance Minister Janez Šušteršič announced on Wednesday on the sidelines of the Investo Expo fair in Ljubljana that the government would discuss on Thursday a proposal for the 2013 budget, whose deficit will remain bellow 3% of GDP despite the downgraded growth forecasts.

Šušteršič, who attended the international investment fair organised by the Pan-Slovenian Shareholders' Association, added that the budget deficit would thus be in line with the promises given to the EU.

Also on hand was Constitutional Court president Ernest Petrič, who expressed concern over the slackening of the rule of law in Slovenia, pointing to the violations of contracts, payment defaults and the ineffectiveness of courts and the state administration.

While he was still able to say a few years ago that corruption was not a serious problem in Slovenia, he said he was no longer sure this was the case.

He moreover urged reforms, calling on politicians, business representatives and trade unions to act responsibly and prevent a disaster for Slovenia.

The Investo Expo, which will conclude on Friday, will see more than 100 guests from from 55 countries and provide an opportunity for domestic institutions, companies and individuals to establish ties with them, the organisers said.

gz/mas
19.09.2012 21:10