The European Central Bank (ECB) maintained interest rates, with President Christine Lagarde emphasizing a data-dependent approach despite inflation falling below target. Bulgaria was welcomed as the 21st euro area member, marking a significant step in European integration. Eurozone inflation decreased to 1.7%, primarily due to falling energy prices, while core inflation also eased. Lagarde highlighted the importance of AI and infrastructure in economic growth, with a slight improvement in the labor market. The ECB monitors the euro's appreciation but does not target exchange rates, focusing instead on their impact on inflation and growth.