Brussels, 27/04/2006 (Agence Europe) - Reacting to Estonia's announcement that it is dropping plans to join the euro in 2007, aiming now to join the eurozone in 2008, a spokesperson for Joaquin Almunia told reporters that the Commission had noted the new target and congratulated Estonia for its realism and constructive attitude. In a telephone conversation with the Estonian finance minister, the Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner highlighted the good outcome of Estonia's stability and reform programme that had given rise to impressive economic performance and a healthy public purse, explained the spokesperson on Thursday, adding that the target dates for joining the euro are only indicative and are not binding on the Commission.
European Parliament plenary session