Finances: Lindner open to reprioritizing EU Corona funds

Finances: Lindner open to reprioritizing EU Corona funds

In the midst of the Ukraine war, the Greens are pleading for an EU fund based on the Corona model. But that is not necessary, says Finance Minister Lindner – and proposes a new list of priorities.

Against the background of the Ukraine war, Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner has shown himself open to adjusting the priorities of the EU reconstruction fund.

“In view of the changed situation, I am open to reprioritizing the available funds,” said the FDP leader of the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung”. However, he rejected a new debt-financed European fund: “We do not need new joint funds with joint debts.”

Lindner said in the interview that investments in infrastructure, energy and competitiveness are necessary, “but no more state consumption and postponed reforms”. «With the Corona reconstruction fund, we have a unique opportunity to drive the necessary transformation forward. I emphasize both words: The step is unique and we must seize the opportunity. »

For the first time, the EU countries are taking out large amounts of debt together via the Corona Aid Fund, which is worth around 800 billion euros, in order to get the economy going again after the pandemic. Above all, projects are to be funded that promote a more environmentally friendly and digital economy.

In view of a possible energy crisis due to the Ukraine war, the Greens in the EU Parliament recently called for an EU fund modeled on the Corona Fund to advance the energy transition and independence from Russian gas. Many member states – including Germany – see the Corona program as a one-time exception.

Source: Stern

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest Posts