Greece Passes 2013 Budget

(Athens) – Greek lawmakers approved the country’s 2013 austerity budget, an essential step in Greece’s efforts to persuade its international creditors to unblock a vital rescue loan installment. The budget passed by a 167-128 vote in the 300-member Parliament, came days after a separate bill of deep spending cuts and tax hikes for the next two years squeaked through with a narrow majority following severe disagreements among the three parties in the governing coalition.
Prime Minister Antonis Samaras said that “Just four days ago, we voted the most sweeping reforms ever in Greece. The sacrifices will be the last. Provided, of course, we implement all we have legislated. Greece has done what it was asked to do and now is the time for the creditors to make good on their commitments”.