The Wall Street Journal Europe has appointed Alan Friedman to be its global economics columnist.

Friedman will write a regular column about the European and global economy as well as providing coverage from economic events such as the International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings, G8 Summits and the World Economic Forum.

Friedman's debut article reported that Russia had signalled it would join other members of the Paris Club of creditor nations to try and provide debt relief for Iraq.

"We're delighted to welcome Alan to The Wall Street Journal family," said Fred Kempe, editor of The Wall Street Journal Europe. "Alan's debut article is typical of his ability to get behind the headlines and generate insight and exclusives."

Friedman has also worked as contributing editor of Vanity Fair.