In 2004 the euro-zone budget deficit had risen from 1.1% in 2000 to 2.9% of GDP and thus came very close to the 3% reference value; only five euro-area Member States had reached a close-to-balance position; and at least as far as one of the euro-zone countries it has been proven that manipulated budgetary statistics were delivered to the European Commission.
In 2004 the euro-zone budget deficit had risen from 1.1% in 2000 to 2.9% of GDP and thus came very close to the 3% reference value; only five euro-area Member States had reached a close-to-balance position; and at least as far as one of the euro-zone countries it has been proven that manipulated budgetary statistics were delivered to the European Commission.