DK calls for EU to press Hungary to adopt euro

The opposition Democratic Coalition (DK) will propose in the European Parliament that the European Union should legally compel Hungary to introduce the euro, DK MEP Csaba Molnar told a press conference on Thursday. The euro is expected to reach "historic highs" against the forint within days, impacting the prices of fuel, food and drugs, Molnar warned. Hungary pledged to introduce the common currency during its accession negotiations (before joining the bloc in 2004), Molnar said. Adopting the euro "immediately" would boost the Hungarian economy, and has the support of the majority of citizens, he said. Ruling Fidesz said in reaction that "Gyurcsany and company want to put Hungary at Brussels' mercy". While in power, Gyurcsany's government gave up Hungary's financial sovereignty and "ruined and nearly bankrupted the country."