The cover of last week's L'Express magazine came with a tiny calculator stuck on it. It appears nothing can prevent 11 of the 15 European Union nations from taking the first steps toward merging their currencies into one at a special EU meeting in Brussels May 1-2. European leaders have pursued the euro with unswerving dedication for more than seven years, and the single currency's powerful momentum has surprised skeptics at one turn after another. The single-currency plan will take effect in January, when the euro becomes a currency in the financial sense, trading on international exchanges in place of its 11 predecessor currencies.
Nothing can prevent the euro from becoming reality.
Although most specialists believe the euro will be a success, others see possible scenarios that could rip the new currency apart, including the structurally weak economies of some nations and financial speculators who could take advantage of the transition period. Euro members not yet chosen. Criteria for membership essentially have been met by the prospective member countries. Almost no risks. Member selection virtually certain to go ahead.