France's Moscovici optimistic on Greece


By Alexia Kefala

There is speculation in Paris that Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici may abandon his post to become a “super commissioner” in Brussels. In an interview with Kathimerini, ahead of a visit to Greece, Moscovici says that, in any case, he is keeping a close eye on developments regarding the Greek economy.

You are about to spend 48 hours in Athens to attend the Informal Meeting of Ministers for Economic and Financial Affairs (Ecofin) on April 1 and 2. What is your opinion about the state of Greece at the moment?

The considerable efforts made over the past few years have started to yield fruit. The year 2014 should mark the return to growth: Experts predict 0.6 percent economic growth [for 2014] and 2.9 percent for 2015.
Public finances are improving. I see the return of a positive momentum as well as future prospects that will encourage investment and create employment opportunities. Greece deserves as much. We must consolidate these good results while continuing the effort to reduce unemployment.

Yes, but you recently said that Greece must intensify its efforts.

We must speak the truth. [The country] has made a considerable effort, but it is not yet out of the woods. Europe is on the side of the Greek people in this trial. The reforms proposed in this fourth review are necessary because they contain measures regarding purchasing power. The reform of public administration – for which France provided technical aid – is equally important so that Greeks can create a more effective and less costly public service.

Do you think the country is going to need a third aid package? Is a restructuring in the cards?

There has been...

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