Stock indices closed higher after the release of the U.S. labour market data later in the day. The U.S. Labor Department released the labour market data on Friday. The U.S. economy added 242,000 jobs in February, exceeding expectations for a rise of 190,000 jobs, after a gain of 172,000 jobs in January. January's figure was revised up from a rise of 151,000 jobs.

The increase was driven by rises in health care and social assistance, retail trade, food services and drinking places, and private educational services.

The U.S. unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.9% in February, the lowest level since February 2008, in line with expectations.

Average hourly earnings dropped 0.1% in February, missing forecasts of a 0.2% gain, after a 0.5% rise in January.

Higher oil prices also supported stock markets.

No major economic reports from the Eurozone were released today.

Indexes on the close:

Name Price Change Change %

FTSE 100 6,199.43 +68.97 +1.13 %

DAX 9,824.17 +72.25 +0.74 %

CAC 40 4,456.62 +40.54 +0.92 %