VIENNA, March 7 (Xinhua) -- The Austrian government Wednesday announced plans to implement a package of measures to strengthen the country's economic competitiveness, Austria Press Agency reported.
This is to encompass economic growth, Austria as a location for business, and employment, with these to be entered into the constitution as state goals along with environmental protection, should they be passed by a two-thirds majority in parliament.
Also planned among other things are shorter environmental impact assessments for businesses, quicker approval for infrastructure projects, bureaucracy cutbacks, improved advisory services from administrative bodies, and a reduction in business fines.
Speaking to the media following cabinet, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said many business owners currently were struggling under the weight of regulations, particularly small-to-medium size ones that do not have large legal departments.
A stronger awareness of the economic success of a country is also required, he argued.
Kurz also said he saw no contradiction in the plans with regard to environmental protection efforts, though minor parties in cabinet have voiced doubt.
