BG

PRIME MINISTER BORISSOV MET WITH THE PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL CHARLES MICHEL

06.02.2020

Bulgaria is a constructive partner in the negotiations on the EU's long-term budget and we share your understanding that with common sense and determination we can reach an agreement that is in the interest of all European citizens. This is what Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said during his meeting with European Council President Charles Michel. The two spoke in Brussels as part of the consultations that the President of the European Council holds with European leaders ahead of the upcoming extraordinary meeting of the European Council on 20-21 February.

 

The main topic of the meeting between Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and President of the European Council Charles Michel was the new Multiannual Financial Framework for the period 2021 - 2027. "EU funds are the engine that helps us move forward faster," the Prime Minister said. Prime Minister Borissov pointed out that the Cohesion policy and the Common Agricultural policy already have proven added value and that their results are visible and tangible for the European citizens. The Prime Minister put and emphasis on the benefits of overcoming the inequalities between different regions and the backwardness. Borissov was certain that it is crucial not to allow any region to break away from the overall pace of EU development.

 

With regard to the efforts to achieve climate neutrality, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov noted that the fair transition package should not be linked in any way with the cohesion package, since the objectives of the two instruments differ significantly in nature. According to the Prime Minister, it is important not to divide new and old priorities of the EU. "We value equally traditional policies, science and innovation, security, the fight against climate change," Prime Minister Borissov said. According to him, the EU budget must confirm what has been achieved so far and at the same time must meet the new challenges facing the EU.

 

During his conversation with the President of the European Council, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov welcomed the active support and commitment of the European institutions to the region of the Western Balkans. The Prime Minister emphasised that the enlargement is a bilateral process, so both sides must fulfill their promises. "This is in the interest of the peace, stability and prosperity of Europe," said the Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov.