13.03.2013

"In the last four years we have been working in very difficult conditions, especially within the EU, but we recovered the financial stability lost in 2009 which was so necessary to be maintained during the crisis", said the retired Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Simeon Djankov during the presentation of the new Minister of Finance Kalin Hristov. Mr. Djankov reminded that there had been willingness to increase the income of the population over the years but it had not been possible. Nevertheless, the minimum wage was raised three times, and this year's budget provides for an income increase in several sectors. Mr. Simeon Djankov wished to the new caretaker minister to enjoy a better external situation so as to be able to work at an easier pace.

Minister Kalin Hristov said that he would be implementing the already adopted budget which planned a sizeable increase of 14 per cent in expenditure compared to the previous budget "The optimal performance of budget revenue will be a priority, there will be a stability in the National Revenue Agency and in the National Customs Agency in order to have total mobilization", added the new Minister. "I have known all the finance ministers in power in the last 15 years and I worked with them. There will be continuity, people must be allowed to work at ease", added Mr. Hristov. The Ministry of Finance will continue following a transparent policy so as to avoid any social insecurity.