Two EU nations have withdrawn from the competition to fill the European Central Bank's vice presidency. Latvia and Portugal are stepping back from the race, narrowing the field of candidates vying for this influential post at the continent's monetary authority. The development comes as member states finalize their selection process for the role, which carries significant weight in shaping Europe's financial policy direction. With fewer contenders now in the running, the decision-making process moves closer to determining who will help steer the ECB's crucial functions in the coming years.