Milan, 18 June (LaPresse) – The decline in birth rates and the ageing population "pose risks to the sustainability of public debt. With regard to demographic transition, it must be borne in mind that ageing is an important factor in assessments of public debt sustainability. The ageing population is considered negative as it has an impact on public spending, for example on pensions and healthcare'. This was stated by the Minister of Economy and Finance, Giancarlo Giorgetti, during a hearing before the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry on the economic and social effects of the demographic transition currently underway.