According to the information released by the International Monetary Fund, the amendments to the central bank legislation are fully satisfactory, and following their passage by Parliament, negotiations may commence, Mihály Varga, minister without portfolio announced on Wednesday.

Mihály Varga informed the press that in her answer, Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), welcomed the communication co-written by the Minister with central bank governor András Simor, and after an evaluation of the amendments submitted in connection with the central bank law, she informed her Hungarian partners that the contemplated amendments are fully acceptable for the IMF.

Lagarde further welcomed the commitment of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Antal Rogán, Chair of the competent parliamentary committee not to make additional appointments for the post of deputy-governor of the central bank.

Mihály Varga said that if Parliament approves these amendments, negotiations with the International Monetary Fund and the competent bodies of the EU may commence.

The Minister pointed out that the passage of the amendments is being delayed through no fault of the Hungarian Government or Parliament; the European Central Bank (ECB) informed the Government that they wish to evaluate the bill themselves. The ECB’s evaluation is expected to be completed at the beginning of July.

Parliament may pass the legislation on 12 July, at the last session of Parliament this season, at the latest, and negotiations may then begin, he added.

(kormany.hu)