The President of the European Central Bank (ECB), Christine Lagarde, has spoken out in favor of depicting famous Europeans on euro notes in the future. "Personally, I can very well imagine showing the faces of famous Europeans on the banknotes: Leonardo da Vinci, Ludwig van Beethoven or James Joyce," Lagarde told the newspapers of the editorial network Germany.
The ECB wants to redesign the euro banknotes by 2024 and also involve citizens. So far, fictitious bridges and windows in various architectural styles have been depicted on the banknotes. "20 years after the launch of the euro, it is time to ask ourselves if there is something that Europeans can identify with even more," said Lagarde. "Something that we all perceive as typically European and that connects us." She cited Leonardo da Vinci, Ludwig van Beethoven and James Joyce as examples.
According to Lagarde, the motifs of the euro banknotes should remain the same and not be designed differently depending on the country, as is the case with the coins. This is to demonstrate unity. "It would be a mistake if we started distinguishing between countries again now. We should find out what unites and connects us – not what divides us," she said.
ECB is still waiting on interest rate policy
Lagarde continued to ask for patience in the interest rate policy, which is currently particularly controversial due to high inflation. She compared a change in interest rate policy to driving a car and gradually taking your foot off the accelerator. "And as soon as the pace is right and the situation allows it, we'll take the curve."
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