Simsek denies fiscal discipline sacrificed to politics

State Minister for the Economy Mehmet Simsek yesterday denied claims that the government had cut the primary surplus target to use economic resources for political gain in the runup to next year's local elections. "Some relaxation of strict economy policy is necessary to finance economic reforms such as raising the quality of public services, creating more employment opportunities, and boasting agricultural production." he said. He also predicted that a 4 percent annual inflation target will be reached in the midterm, and growth this year will be nearly 4.5 percent.