Eastern Germany Strengthens after Summer Weakness

The economy in Eastern Germany is on the up after a stagnant summer, according to the Halle Institute of Economic Research. The weakness experienced over the summer months, which contributed to a dreadful half year result, is beginning to dissipate, the Institute said, hinting at a positive figure for the final quarter of the year. The Institute is forecasting an increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the east of Germany of 0.3 per cent on 2002.