Problems in Europe and in the euro currency zone overshadow discussions on Romania’s euro zone entry, but the objective must remain on the table, Negritoiu highlighted. Being a euro zone member would first of all solve problems concerning the country’s exposure to the euro, he added.
On the other hand, requirements for the entry might change significantly, considering that some euro zone states no longer meet the criteria based on which they joined the euro currency, Negritoiu said.
Romania will not abandon the adoption of the euro for two main reasons: it is highly exposed to euro, as 60% of loans to individuals and firms are in euro, and because it needs stricter financial and economic discipline, he said.
Romania aims to adopt the European currency by 2015.