Praise and caution from Eurozone leaders

STASBOURG, France, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Eurozone leaders in France praised the group's ability to react forcefully during a crisis at an anniversary event celebrating the euro's first decade.

"We are playing an active role" in the global economic crisis European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet told members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, the EU Observer reported Wednesday.

"We can be proud of the prompt response of Europe (to the crisis)," he said.

Acting President of the Eurozone Jean-Claude Juncker said the euro, which was launched Jan 1, 1999, was an "unquestioned success," and an called it an "anchor of stability."

But, both leaders sounded notes of caution.

"It is no time for complacency," Trichet said.

Economically, "current challenges are pressing, and new challenges will arise," he said.

Juncker, who is also the prime minister of Luxembourg, said "the real test for the cohesion of the eurozone is still facing us."

"2009 is going to be an extremely difficult year for the eurozone and its citizens," he said.