Brussels, 12/01/2005 (Agence Europe) - In an article published by the European Policy Centre, Jean-Claude Juncker refers to his role at the Head of Eurogroup over the next two years and the subsequent co-ordination of economic and budgetary polices of member of the euro zone. As the public face of euro policy, he also aims to improve dialogue between the European Central Bank (ECB) by "respecting the prerogatives of each of them".
At Eurogroup, Juncker sees his role as a "discreet force, nurturing trust among members of the Eurogroup" so that the body becomes the "unquestioned forum for fostering the debate leading to the definition of a common message of the Eurozone, be it to national or international audiences". Discussions will take the form of "fundamental and strategic debate and the exchange of good practices", explains Mr Juncker, who is not envisaging any revolution in Eurogroup's working methods. One of his objectives will, nevertheless, be to set up in May or June each year, exchanges of views on "the economic perspectives of Europe before budget debates begin at the national level". Such an adjustment of the calendar will allow Member States to reach agreement on common data for elaborating their budget policies and responding to the objectives involved in the revision of the Stability and Growth Pact in order to achieve better macro-economic co-ordination. Despite the misgivings of some Member States, Juncker considers that this process is not a new exercise of "peer group pressure" but rather, an example of "peer group support".
In relation to relations between both parents of the euro, Mr Juncker provides assurances and asserts that he did not intend to endanger the ECB's independence. He declared that "I fully understand the apprehension expressed by some in the ECB regarding the development of the partnership between the Eurogroup and ECC". He stated that he was confident that he would be able to "put in place a constructive and respectful dialogue".