GERMAN shares ended fairly thin volume bourse dealings 0.3 per cent weaker after Wall Street closed lower overnight, with dealers saying the market - was taking a breather following recent bullish trading.

Paris CAC-40: 2255.47 (+21.90)

In Paris, French shares defied early profit taking at the end of the account to push to a year high above 2250. London's surge through the 4000 level was supportive.

Milan Mibtel: 10543 (+98)

Italian stocks firmed in afternoon trading to end just off their session highs on speculation the lira would be back in the European currency grid this weekend. Prime Minister Mr Romano Prodi said the lira's return was imminent after Italy lodged a formal request to be readmitted.