Economically troubled Latvia adopts euro
Latvian citizens are concerned that joining the eurozone may not be for the best. CNN's Isa Soares reports.

As fireworks lit up the skies,heralding a New Year, cashpoints across Latvia began shooting out euros instead of Lats. Among the first to withdraw a crisp 10 euro note was the country's prime minister.
“I believe it's also a big opportunity for Latvia's economic development becoming a member of the world's second biggest currency, it's a big opportunity for raising welfare in Latvia.”
Joining the club hasn't been easy though the country's economy shrank by some 20% at the height of its economic crisis. On top of that,it has pushed through a wrenching austerity program. But the hard grind it seems has paid off. The economy has rebounded, it grew 4.5% in the third quarter of last year and unemployment has fallen,an example some argue that the austerity can work.
“Thanks to these efforts undertaken in the aftermath of a deep economic crisis, Latvia entered the Euro area stronger than ever. In 2013, Latvia's GDP is forecast to expand by 4%, the highest growth rate in European Union. And this growth is expected to continue in 2014.”
While the political elite in Brussels herald the new members those at home have adopted 7 currencies in 100 years fear losing sovereignty,they worried about new tougher responsibility to meet EU targets and price increases. “In all other countries who switched before us ,prices rose,most likely they will rise here as well.That is bad.”“Nice,good-looking money,but unfortunately I still don't understand much.” Well,it seems she's not alone according to the latest polls: 50% of Latvians were against adopting euro. This despite promises of new jobs, of foreign investment and economic growth.
“I wish and I see Latvia would be able to get service on our neighouring countries, to be as a fastest growing region in Europe.” This new beginning moves Latvia closer to the West and further away from shadows of Russia，hopping that their new club will bring it more stability,predictability and prosperity.