German chancellor Angela Merkel said that measures being drafted by the European Union will result in rules with "more bite" to protect the euro in any future debt crisis.
Steps to avert EU members running up excessive debt include sanctions that are brought in quicker and earlier, as well as closer EU-wide co-ordination on economic policy.
Speaking in Bruges, Belgium, Dr Merkel said a longer-term crisis mechanism is necessary to cope in the event of a repeat crisis.
"We will set it up in such a way that European taxpayers will no longer be on the hook for possible new mistakes and turmoil on the financial markets. Private investors must also make a contribution."
EU leaders agreed last week to establish a debt mechanism to help stem any recurrence of the European debt crisis that forced a €110 billion bailout for Greece and establishment of a €750 billion fund to backstop the euro.
Dr Merkel said that the new debt mechanism intended to replace the euro fund when it expires in three years "needs a clear legal basis" in EU treaties.
EU leaders have agreed on "limited" changes to the treaties to secure stability in the euro area. "I'm very happy about that," Dr Merkel said.
Bloomberg