Politics

Peruvian Congress approved budget for 2024

Lima, Nov 30 (EFE).- The Peruvian Congress approved the Public Budget Law for 2024 proposed by the government, which amounts to 240.8 billion soles ($64.7 billion) with an increase in social spending.

With 89 votes in favor, 25 against, and 8 abstentions, the plenary approved the substitute text to the original draft legislation, which the government supported last week, on the last day of the deadline according to the rules.

Several changes, such as an increase of 1 billion in the final figure compared to the one presented by the executive, were made after debates and a search for consensus.

The final text includes requests from health professionals and members of “ollas comunes,” food distribution communities, among others, explained José Jerí, president of the Budget Committee.

“With the approval of the 2024 budget, we are beginning a new stage for the 33 million Peruvians who are waiting for major works and a better level of attention from the State,” said Prime Minister of Peru, Alberto Otárola, after the vote.

In a short speech to the plenary, Otárola stressed that the budget would boost health, early childhood development, higher education, and social programs.

It is a “historical budget” that emphasized decentralization at regional and local levels and Peru’s most pressing needs, namely economic activity and social priorities, he added.

For his part, the Minister of Economy and Finance, Álex Contreras, emphasized “the crucial role that this law will play for the people.”

“I am grateful for the spirit of cooperation in the Budget Committee, despite our differences we were able to find a middle ground,” added the Minister. EFE

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