European Investment Bank Support for SMEs

The first installments of a 1.4-billion-Euro credit line by the European Investment Bank (EIB) for Greece-based SMEs are expected to commence in autumn, following an agreement reached in Athens between EIB President Werner Hoyer and the Greek government.

According to statements after the meeting by Mr. Hoyer and two top Greek ministers, Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras, and Development & Infrastructure Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, technical problems were overcome, with a further understanding for EIB funding towards prospective financing of privatisations in the country and public-private sector partnership projects. The agreement envisions funding up to the end of 2015. (Source: ANA)