Programme of the Ministry of the Economy 2007

Dear reader,
last year was a landmark for the Slovenian economy. It was a year of demanding yet
successful projects which are undoubtedly the result of well planned and coordinated
cooperation between various economic policies.
We can boast a record rate (nearly 5%) of economic growth, which allows us to be as
audacious as last year in efforts and activities towards furthering economic
development. The growth of living standard in Slovenia is significantly above the
average of Central and South-Eastern Europe. We have curbed inflation and
unemployment.
This, as well as preparations in which the Ministry of the Economy played a crucial
role, in particular in drafting the necessary legislation and other regulations,
contributed to a successful adoption of the euro. The changeover to the euro is a
recognition for the Slovenian economy, but it is also an incentive for the expansion
of international operations of companies given the simplified business that the
single European currency entails.
Only a stable macro- and microeconomic environment can be a foundation for
successful economic performance. The adopted legislation and the ministry's
financial incentives, which are targeted at the creation of a business-friendly
environment with emphasis on the removal of administrative obstacles, provide a
good basis for the challenges awaiting us in the second half of the term in
government.
Increasing the competitiveness of the Slovenian economy in Europe and worldwide
remains a priority of the Ministry of the Economy in 2007. This publication informs
you about our guidelines and concrete measures for the achievement of the goals
we have set.
The awareness that sustainable economic development is our common responsibility
is not enough, however. Ambitious plans, know-how and innovative approaches
require comprehensive efforts and mutual cooperation. This calls for synergy –
synergy of cooperation between the key stakeholders and coordinated projects from
various fields.
Andrej Vizjak, MSc,
Minister of the Economy
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