PRAGUE, Jan. 1 (Xinhua) -- Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis delivered his New Year address on Wednesday, describing the situation in the country as one of the "most successful and happiest periods".
Babis took the opportunity to assuage fears that the country's growth will slow in the coming decade and outline the priorities of his government's National Investment Plan published in December.
"I want to tell you: Don't worry. We have nothing to worry about," said the prime minister.
He noted that long-term growth must be based mainly on investment, promising that the government would take a leading role in investment if the private sector lagged.
Babis also addressed climate change, focusing on the drought persistent in the country.
He mentioned efforts to scale-back the use of fossil fuels and develop nuclear energy. "We are significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We are investing in renewable sources. And we are preparing for the end of the coal period," he said.
The new Building Act was a key topic in next year's parliament, according to Babis.
"Next year it will probably be the most important topic in the House. It must be a common agreement of all parties. One office. One stamp. This is the main aim," he said, referring to the goal of the planned law to facilitate the construction projects' approval process.
