Q1 primary surplus over one billion

At the same time the deficit in the state balance of payments came to 1.144 billion as against an expected 1.459 billion euros and a deficit of 2.426 billion in the same period in 2013.

The data was presented by alternate finance minister Christos Staikouras who noted the figures bore out the government's success in attaining fiscal objectives.

The net income of the state during the first quarter came to 16.138 billion euros, a decrease of 263 million, or 1.6% off target, but still 395 million higher than the corresponding period in 2013.

Proceeds from taxes stood at 12.784 billion euros, 240 million less, (1.6%) than projections.

Public investment revenues came to 2.295 billion euros, exceeding targets by 788 million euros.

Outlays were also down by 578 million, standing at 17.282 billion euros.