21/12/2022 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 21 December, echoing the assessment of the European Commission (see EUROPE 13085/11), the Eurogroup considered that the Italian draft budget plan for 2023 is “in line” with the qualitative European fiscal guidance, while the Stability and Growth Pact will remain ‘frozen’ until the end of 2023. In a statement, it welcomes the fact that this draft budgetary plan preserves public investment, notably through the European Recovery Plan. It stresses the importance for Italy, as for all euro area countries facing high public debt, to “accelerate” structural reforms that increase growth potential and strengthen debt sustainability. In 2023, the Eurogroup will assess the budgetary impact of a possible extension of the emergency measures taken to help households and businesses cope with soaring energy prices. (MB)