Kazimir: Dijsselbloem Should See Out Term as Eurogroup President

Kazimir: Dijsselbloem Should See Out Term as Eurogroup President

Bratislava, January 9 (TASR) – Jeroen Dijsselbloem is carrying out the job of Eurogroup president in an excellent manner, so his successor will have a tough act to follow, Slovak Finance Minister Peter Kazimir stated on Monday in relation to speculation that Kazimir could replace Dijsselbloem in his post.

“I personally believe that Jeroen should see out his second 2.5-year mandate regardless of whether he becomes finance minister in the Netherlands after the March general election or not. Let’s not divide up a bear that’s still roaming around in the forest. Perhaps there’s a right time to revive a debate on having a permanent president of the group of eurozone country finance ministers,” said Kazimir in a statement.

Dijsselbloem’s mandate is due to expire in January 2018. Meanwhile, as part of the speculation on the possible outcome of the Dutch general election two possible replacements for Dijsselbloem at the helm of the Eurogroup are being discussed – Kazimir and Spain’s Finance Minister Luis de Guindos.

Kazimir stated that he doesn’t like speculation and doesn’t engage in it. “At the same time it’s certainly flattering to see oneself among those considered for the post. It’s a compliment not only for me, but also for the entire team behind me. It’s surely also feedback for the successful [EU Council] presidency and Slovakia’s trustworthiness abroad,” added Kazimir.