19/02/2020 (Agence Europe) – The European Commission on Wednesday 19 February extended by 6 months the surveillance framework for Greek public finances put in place after Greece finalised its third financial rescue package in mid-2018. Considered an “expected procedural step” under the Stability and Growth Pact (Regulation 472/2013), this decision authorises the European institution to assist the Greek authorities in implementing their reform programme. The 5th Fiscal Surveillance Report for Greece will be published as part of the country-specific socio-economic policy recommendations which the Commission will unveil by the end of February. Based on a growing economy, Athens wants to renegotiate with its creditors the obligation to run primary budget surpluses (excluding debt service) in excess of 3.5% of GDP until 2022. (MB)