Cypriots Praised For Welcoming The Euro

Article Date : 15 January 2008
News Section: Cyprus

People in Cyprus have been praised for their positive approach to the recent currency changeover.

EU monetary affairs commissioner Joaquin Almunia congratulated the island's population for giving the euro a "warm welcome" since it entered circulation on New Year's Day.

He said Cyprus's adoption of the currency would open a "new chapter in the short but already rich history" of the eurozone.

However, a poll by the Famagusta Gazette conducted during the first two weeks of its euro membership has shown that not everyone has supported the changeover.

An online survey found that the new currency has been welcomed by 37 per cent of people, although 29 per cent of respondents believe it is still too early to judge.

In addition, 17 per cent said they "hate" the euro, while a similar number are in favour of bringing back the pound.