Vilks would like public support for euro to exceed 50%

RIGA - Finance Minister Andris Vilks (Unity) would like at least 50 percent of Latvian residents to support euro introduction in 2014, writes LETA.

Today, Vilks participated in the Saeima European Affairs Committee's session. When asked about the desired support for euro, the minister pointed out that the government does not aim for a specific figure, but the support for euro should preferably reach at least 50 percent.

The minister pointed out that public support for euro also depends on Latvia's economy, EU and eurozone developments.

The head of the European Commission Representation in Latvia, Inna Steinbuka, told reporters that euro adoption information should be many-sided so it would not resemble propaganda, and emphasized the necessity of providing answers to all euro adoption aspects.

As reported, in December 2012, approximately 540,000 or 31 percent of Latvian residents approved of Latvia's transition from the lat to the euro, according to the latest public opinion surveys.

Latviais planning to join the eurozone in 2014.