-Mario Draghi, ECB President
Greece's Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis sees the country returning to the financial markets as soon as it succeeds in debt restructuring, investment and sustains primary budget surpluses. Greece has been excluded from international financial markets since 2010, with the exception of two bond issues in 2014 made by Antonis Samaras' government. Also, Athens is expected to receive its third rescue package worth 20 billion euros this summer. Meanwhile, Riksbank, Sweden's central bank, said it is prepared to cut interest rates further and increase bond purchases in the near-term, if inflation expectations continue to stay low and shocks coming from overseas remain strong. Inflation has been declining below the Riksbank's goal for several years. In January, the consumer price index dropped 0.2% on the year and 1.1% on the month.
In a speech before the European Parliament, the ECB President Mario Draghi warned that the future of the currency bloc was at risk. Draghi outlined the need for member states to give up some independence, harmonize their economies and create stronger Pan-European government institutions to ensure long-term success of the monetary union. Draghi has reiterated previously his view that Euro zone governments should do more to improve their economic performance.
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