The European Commission published remarks by Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis following the Eurogroup, highlighting the policy priorities discussed for the euro area based on the Commission’s 2026 euro area recommendation and noting key institutional and operational updates. The 2026 recommendation calls on Member States to ensure compliance with fiscal rules to safeguard fiscal sustainability, use the flexibility in the fiscal framework for defence spending, and complete implementation of recovery and resilience plans by the August 2026 deadline. The remarks also referenced Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro on 1 January and an update on the changeover, with the transition from the lev to the euro described as proceeding smoothly following technical preparations and communication campaigns. Separately, the Eurogroup reached a consensus on the candidacy of Boris Vujcic as successor to European Central Bank Vice President Luis de Guindos, with the process continuing beyond this step.
European Commission 2026-01-19
European Commission reiterates 2026 euro area policy priorities and notes Eurogroup consensus on Boris Vujcic as next ECB vice president
The European Commission outlined policy priorities for the euro area, emphasizing fiscal rule compliance, defense spending flexibility, and completion of recovery plans by August 2026. Additionally, Bulgaria's euro adoption was noted as smooth, and the Eurogroup agreed on Boris Vujcic's candidacy for European Central Bank Vice President.