Lithuania switched to European currency and thus became the 19 eurozone countries. Local authorities are confident that this will help to attract more foreign investment.
“I think that today thinking of CEOs is changing. There is an understanding that using the euro as a stable currency and the world, in the long run we can improve the economy and business,” – says the Prime Minister of Lithuania Algirdas Butkevičius.
However, people are not so sure that the transition to the euro will be a real boon to the country. According to the poll, conducted in November, most Lithuanians oppose the introduction of the common European currency – 48% of respondents against 46% of supporters of the euro.
The representatives of small and medium-sized businesses are also not sure that the transition to European currency will be the salvation of the Lithuanian economy. “Do not change globally. Just one piece of paper will be replaced by others. It would be better to think how to raise production in the country “, – said the businessman Visvaldas Mateyotis.
Local media noted that in the country before moving to the European currency began buying spree. Residents invest in food with a long shelf life, home appliances and electronics – are afraid of skyrocketing due to the introduction of the euro. Lithuanian central bank tries to reassure citizens, writes LifeNews.
“With the new year all the Baltic countries will be in a single economic zone. We will have a common market and a common currency. Although, of course, takes time to Lithuania reoriented. A successive reforms are also needed, “- said Chairman of the Board of the Bank of Lithuania Vitas Vasiliauskas.
Last year, the euro zone has already joined Latvia, and in 2011 – Estonia. In both countries rose sharply levels of inflation and unemployment. In addition, a significant portion of the population of these countries still oppose this decision of the authorities. But the official Vilnius hopes that the fate of neighbors can be avoided.
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