European Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici reported on Monday significant progress in the negotiations between Greece and its EU partners, adding however that time is running out. “We are making substantial progress and progress in substance,” he told reporters on Berlin during a briefing on the European Commission’s annual recommendations to Germany on its macroeconomic policies, adding the two sides were now closer to agreeing on reforms in added-value tax, non-performing loans and the independence of tax administration. He also said Athens has also been “engaging more constructively on the issue of privatizations” and that there are positive signals regarding the reform of the gas market. “But of course we are not there…we need to speed up in order to conclude,” he said noting that reforms are also needed in the social security system and the labour market. “We have limited time now, limited time and still a very important job to be done.” Asked about a possible third aid package for Greece , Moscovici said ongoing negotiations don’t include at present a discussion on such assistance for Greece and any possible bailout can only be discussed once the present program has been concluded. (source: ana-mpa)
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