[European Central Bank President Announces Digital Euro Preparations Enter Final Stage] European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde announced that the Governing Council has decided to advance the final stage of preparations for the digital euro, marking a critical milestone for the project. On October 23, the European Council called for accelerating the process to launch the digital euro as soon as possible. Lagarde stated that paper currency will remain in circulation, but she hopes to extend the functionality of cash through the digital euro, allowing the public to use both paper money and digital cash in a manner similar to payment apps. According to the plan, if approved by the European Parliament in 2026, the digital euro pilot program will begin in 2027, with a full rollout across Europe planned for 2029, provided testing proceeds smoothly. Lagarde emphasized that the digital euro represents a symbol of trust in the unity of European currency and sovereignty.