Brussels, 03/03/2009 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission considers it is not necessary to hold a debate at present on the timeliness of maintaining the condition of belonging to the European exchange rate mechanism (ERM II) for two years before being able to join the eurozone. “No member state is putting itself forward or considers it is in a position to adopt the euro at present”, said the spokesperson for Commissioner Joaquin Almunia, in answer to questions put by the press. At the present time, countries wishing to join the eurozone must first of all make the necessary effort regarding the other Maastricht criteria (deficit, debt, inflation), she pointed out, adding: “The debate on the two year period can be held at a later date”. She went on to specify that exchange stability will be examined at the same time as the other conditions, that is, at a time nearer to possible accession. Given the objectives set out by states applying to join the eurozone, this issue should, she said, appear in 2011 with Poland, which has set itself the target of 2012 for adopting single currency. In the past, however, some countries joining the eurozone had not strictly remained within the ERM II mechanism for two years, she added, citing Italy and Finland. (A.B./transl.jl)