1992 Maastricht Treaty

The Maastricht Treaty, signed in 1992, was a key agreement that established the European Union (EU) and set the framework for economic and political integration among its member states. It introduced concepts such as a single currency, which led to the creation of the euro, and laid the groundwork for common policies in areas like trade, security, and immigration. The treaty aimed to promote stability and cooperation across Europe, fostering closer ties between nations after the Cold War, while also introducing criteria for countries to join the eurozone, ensuring economic alignment and fiscal responsibility.