The finance ministry has defended the necessity of overseas trips by government officials, stating they are vital for economic diplomacy and attracting foreign investment. This comes amid an austerity drive aimed at offsetting a sharp increase in subsidy expenditure, which the ministry attributes to the conflict driving up global oil prices.
In a statement, the ministry outlined that the austerity measures include cuts to non-essential spending, but emphasized that overseas trips are not considered non-essential. 'These trips are crucial for securing trade deals and investment that benefit the national economy,' the statement said.
The ministry did not provide specific figures on the cost of these trips or the total savings from austerity measures. However, it reiterated that the government is committed to fiscal discipline while ensuring that key diplomatic and economic activities continue.
The conflict referenced has led to sustained high oil prices, increasing the burden of fuel subsidies on the national budget. The ministry's stance has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics arguing that all non-essential travel should be suspended during the austerity period.
