The euro is the single currency shared by (currently) 16 of the European Union's Member States, which together make up the eurozone or euro area. The euro was adopted by the following countries: * In 1999, by Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Spain, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal and Finland * In 2001 by Greece * In 2007 by Slovenia * In 2008 by Cyprus and Malta * In 2009 by Slovakia