Prague - The Czech Republic has not yet met all the criteria for joining the eurozone, said European Council President Herman Van Rompuy after meeting Czech Prime Minister Petr Necas during his official visit to Prague. According to Van Rompuy, the adoption of the euro is not a pressing issue for the Czech Republic right now.
Necas responded that the Czech government has the same position, and has decided not to set a target date for the adoption of the euro yet. The prime minister admitted the possibility of calling a referendum on the issue when the time comes.
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Necas also said that the Czech Republic is heavily invested in the eurozone's troubles. "We are a small, open and very export oriented economy," explained Necas. Czech exports account for 80 percent of gross domestic product, and 65 percent of these exports go to the eurozone. "It is our vital national interest to cooperate closely on the solution of the problems in the eurozone. Stability and prosperity of the eurozone is in our interest."
The informal "European President" said in Prague that the May 2013 summit of leaders of the 27 EU member states will address energy issues. "This is a sector that poses significant challenges to the EU," said Van Rompuy, adding that it is necessary to diversify supply routes, allow the use of new resources, and create a predictable framework for future investments in the European energy infrastructure. "We must complete the common energy market by 2014, which is next year. And I welcome the importance the Czech Republic gives to this issue," said Van Rompuy.
"We consider this issue immensely important," said Necas. "Energy prices very strongly influence the competitiveness of our industry."
