New Delhi, Jan. 13 -- Central bank chiefs from around the world have come together to express their support for Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, saying they stand in "full solidarity" with him after the United States threatened the 72-year-old banker with criminal indictment.

The heads of the Bank of England, the European Central Bank and the Bank of Canada are among 11 senior bankers who have collectively signed a statement, stressing the importance of maintaining independence when setting interest rates.

"Chair Powell has served with integrity, focused on his mandate and an unwavering commitment to the public interest," they said in a rare joint statement, which is seen by the BBC.

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