Insight Central Europe News

Polish government approves billions in spending cuts to rein in deficit

Poland's government has approved billions of dollars worth of spending cuts. The bill is designed to slim the country's budget deficit and prepare the economy for membership of the European Union and the single currency. It's hoped the cuts will save at least 5.1 billion dollars by 2007.

Hungary among NATO nations to commit to acquiring air-to-air refuelling fleet

Hungary is one of nine NATO nations who have agreed to establish a multinational fleet of air-to-air refuelling tankers. The refuelling fleet is part of a package of measures to modernize the alliance military - so it can respond quickly to threats around the world.

Czech Republic interested in investing in Bulgaria's energy sector

Czech Prime Minister Vladimir Spidla has said his country is interested in investing in Bulgaria's energy sector and infrastructure. Speaking during a two-day official visit he said Czech companies could help in the modernization of nuclear power plants. The Czech company Skoda is one of five companies bidding to complete a second nuclear plant in Bulgaria.

Slovakia names new Defence chief

And Slovakia's president Rudolf Schuster has appointed lawmaker, Juraj Liska as new Defence Minster. Liska replaces Ivan Simko who was dismissed last month. Liska said his first task was to complete Slovakia's entry into the NATO military alliance, which it is due to join in May next year.