Greek parliament approves austere annual budget

  • Greece
Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said that "deep and radical" economic reform remains his goal for the country. Credit: Reuters

Greece approved the annual budget for 2016 on Sunday that includes deep spending cuts and tax hikes amid economic recession.

With 153 votes in favour, 145 against and two absent, the Greek budget for 2016 was approved amid tensions and heavy criticism between Members of Parliament of different parties.

As lawmakers approved the budget plan, Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said he is confident of implementing 2016's austere budget but it will be a "difficult task" .

He added that a "deep and radical reform of the economic, productive and social model of the country" remains his goal.