Brussels, 15/02/2002 (Agence Europe) - In its monthly report in February, the European Central Bank (ECB) was once again optimistic about the climate for growth in the Euro-zone. It stated that, "Recent survey data released in the Euro area indicate that a firming of economic activity should take place… although the timing and strength of the upturn remain uncertain". According to the ECB, interest rates are currently at appropriate levels for maintaining price stability in the medium-term in the Euro-zone, which means that rates will probably not come down in the near future. The ECB has been rather relaxed about talk of rising prices. The ECB regards the inflation increase in January (a 2.5% year-on increase compared to a 2.1% increase in December) as a reflection of exceptional circumstances that will soon disappear. It added that the transition of the Euro into circulation had not had a significant impact on price rises. During the course of the year the rate of inflation is expected to experience a clear fall to an acceptable maximum rate of 2%. Industrial production in the Euro-zone is expected to experience a fall of more than 0.6% in the fourth quarter of 2001 compared to that in the third quarter.