What are the inflation rate requirements stipulated by the Maastricht criteria?

The Maastricht criteria, established to ensure economic convergence among EU member states before adopting the euro, include specific requirements regarding inflation rates. The correct answer indicates that a country must maintain an inflation rate within 1.5% of the average of the three lowest inflation rates in the EU.

This benchmark aims to promote price stability and prevent excessive inflation that could destabilize the economy of the eurozone. By setting a standard based on the performance of the least inflationary economies, the Maastricht criteria encourage countries to keep their inflation in check, thereby fostering a stable economic environment across member states.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the stipulated inflation rate requirements. For instance, the criteria do not require adherence to a limit of 1% or 2% in relation to either the highest or lowest rates, nor do they allow for a lack of specific limits, as doing so would deviate from the fundamental principles established under the Maastricht Treaty.