The 2014 budget, tabled in Parliament yesterday by Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras and presented by Finance Alternate Minister Christos Staikouras, envisages, among others, a 0.6% growth rate in 2014, following a contraction of 4.0% in 2013, the budget states. The Greek economy will return to growth in 2014, following six years of unprecedented recession, and will achieve a primary surplus of €3.0 billion, according to provisions of the 2014 draft budget, signalling the country’s gradual exit from the crisis.

The discussion on the draft budget will begin at the relevant standing committee on November 25, and will be completed over four sessions, said Parliament Speaker Evangelos Meimarakis.

Discussion of the budget at the Parliament's plenum is expected to begin on December 3 or 4, he said, and will be completed over five sessions, including the vote by roll call.