Post date: Sep 18, 2013 3:14:51 PM
R Reports - From problem politician to would-be problem solver ...
Dominique Strauss-Kahn has a new incarnation as adviser to the Serbian government over its stricken economy.
The former IMF chief economist and French presidential hopeful was accused of sexually assaulting a New York hotel maid in 2011.The charges were dropped.
But he still faces other charges in France - over allegations that he procured prostitutes for sex parties.
He said he was ready for his new challenge- even if he couldn't perform miracles.
FORMER CHIEF OF INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FOND, DOMINIQUE STRAUSS-KAHN:
"Of course it's not going to be easy because the global economy is not going that well and because the Serbian economy has some real problems. But I think it's possible and I think with some efforts, we can make it."
Serbia has 24 per cent unemployment, high public debt and a budget on course to breach deficit targets.
But its deputy prime minister, Aleksander Vucic, has already had to fight off criticism of the appointment.
Strauss-Kahn, he said, is the right man for the job.
SERBIAN FIRST DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER, ALKESANDAR VUCIC:
"We need to move forward our economy, we need to resolve many of our problems regarding, particularly regarding public debt, fiscal deficit and all the others and we are not ashamed to say that that guy knows that much better than we do and I think it's quite logical to engage his team."
Strauss-Kahn wouldn't say whether he'll advise Serbia to seek a loan from his former employer, the IMF.
What is known is that he's agreed to work for Serbia for three months - with no salary.