Lithuanian new ruling coalition announces government's program

Lithuania's ruling coalition of peasants and social democrats published on Monday the program of the upcoming government.

The document of more than 100 pages features the tasks for the country's government formed by the Peasant and Greens Union (LVZS), the winners of the country's parliamentary elections, and the Social Democratic party (LSDP).

The program repeatedly marked by the word "sustainable" sets dozens of tasks for the upcoming cabinet and puts emphasis on family policy, efforts to tackle alcohol consumption, pays attention to cultural development at the country's regions, administrative efficiency, promises continuity in defense and foreign policy.

The ruling coalition aims to decrease income inequality by reforming tax system and probably implementing progressive taxes.

"In our tax program, we propose the minimum progressiveness, and we will consider prospects to extend it in the future," said the document.

The coalition also thinks about combining taxes paid by employees and employers into one bracket, revising income tax exemptions in terms of "social justice and efficiency".

In its program, the ruling coalition said supporting the liberalization of the labor code, but promised to revise the new labor code adopted by the outgoing government to ensure "the proper protection of employees' rights".

In its section on "sustainable transportation," the document sets the task to revise the governance structure of Lithuanian railways. According to the program, the state controlled railway company "must be efficient."

The coalition vows to complete Rail Baltica project, the high-speed railway project through the Baltic states, making it a priority issue in relations with neighboring countries.

The LVZS-led coalition also promises to promote small "green" energy producers.

According to the World Health Organization, Lithuania is ranked among top three countries in Europe in terms of alcohol consumption. Fight against alcoholism in the country was one of the highlights of LVZS electoral campaign.

The government's program vows to increase excise duties for alcohol and tobacco "constantly and consistently" while at the same time limiting access to alcohol.

The program is subject to approval by the Seimas, Lithuanian parliament. MPs are expected to vote on the program next week. As soon as the parliament approves the document, the cabinet receives the mandate and takes office. Endit