President Vejonis "truly interested" in Latvia's economic growth

  • 2015-07-24
  • From wire reports and TBT staff, RIGA

The President of the bank of Latvia, Ilmars Rimsevics, believes Latvia’s newly elected president Raimonds Vejonis is "truly interested" in the country’s national economic growth.

"I got an impression that Vejonis is truly interested in all those issues related with Latvia's national economic growth and future prospects," said Rimsevics.

He also revealed both parties discussed Latvia's economic development perspectives, economic growth during the 2016 financial year, plus government budget planning and the ecnomic situation in Greece.

Rimsevics outlined that at present, growth is paramount for Latvia's economy, and should therefore not be ruined with knee-jerk decisions.

He stated should the government attempt to make any sharp economic decisions during the formation of the budget, he is sure President Vejonis will intervene. 

The Latvian Presidential press service reported during discussions surrounding the taxation system, both officials agreed that the tax burden should not be changed next year. 

Rimsevics stressed it is very important to retain a consistent and stable taxation policy, avoid tax hikes; especially a value added tax (VAT) hike. 

Vejonis agreed a stable taxation policy would promote economic and confidence within the country.

During the meeting, both Vejonis and Rimkevics discussed the situation in Greece. 

Vejonis believes a successful solution is only possible, should Greece prove to the international community it is able to implement reforms and a sustainable fiscal policy as had done by Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia during the recent financial and economic global crisis. 

Vejonis took office as Latvian President on July 8 from incumbant Andris Berzins.