Eurozone Grows Out of Recession

Germany and France both experienced growth, but output in Spain, the Netherlands, and Italy dropped

The eurozone has emerged from recession after a record 18 months of economic contraction.

Across the bloc, GDP grew by 0.3% in the second quarter of 2013, slightly ahead of forecasts.

The growth was widely expected after the German economy rose 0.7% between April and June.

However, the overall figure masks the mixed economic fortunes among the countries that make up the 17-country eurozone area.

Germany and France both posted stronger-than-expected growth, expanding 0.7% and 0.5% respectively.