2  State of convergence  At the core of our preparations is a uniform analytical framework for assessing the state of economic convergence. This framework has already been applied to the current member states of the Eurosystem.
The rationale behind the convergence criteria which are to be assessed every other year by the Eurosystem is that countries may join the euro area only if their participation is conducive to the maintenance of price stability and the viability of EMU. The convergence criteria form a coherent and integrated whole, so all of them must be met.