SOFIA/LUXEMBOURG – Bulgaria supports the European Commission (EC) and the presidency of the European Council in their efforts to implement legislative measures aimed at minimizing administrative burdens and streamlining the regulatory framework. This announcement was made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the “General Affairs” Council meeting held in Luxembourg.
The Bulgarian delegation was led by permanent representative, Ambassador Rumen Alexandrov. The discussions focused on draft conclusions for the upcoming European Council meeting scheduled for October 23, the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034, packages for the simplification of European Union (EU) legislation, the Article 7 procedure against Hungary, and the creation of a European democratic shield.
In preparation for the upcoming European Council meeting, Bulgaria highlighted the necessity of boosting the European economy’s competitiveness through affordable energy, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and investment in innovation, green, and digital technologies. In climate policy discussions, Bulgaria advocated for a pragmatic and equitable approach to the green transition and the establishment of the EU’s climate target for 2040, as well as a delay in the implementation and revision of the new emissions trading system for transport and buildings (ETS2) to prevent excessive burdens on households and businesses.
While discussing the future MFF, Bulgaria emphasized the importance of allocating adequate resources for essential EU policies, including cohesion, agriculture, competitiveness, and security. The strategic relevance of the EU’s eastern border, particularly the Black Sea regions, and the need to address their unique challenges was underscored. Bulgaria also stressed the importance of funding for military mobility within the Connecting Europe Facility, given the increasing emphasis on strengthening collective defense capabilities. Regarding competitiveness, Bulgaria insisted that all member states and regions be granted access to the new fund.
Bulgaria expressed its willingness to actively engage in the development of the European democratic shield, aimed at combating disinformation, external interference, and hybrid threats.
On the previous day, during a meeting in Luxembourg focusing on interregional security and connectivity among EU member states, Eastern Partnership countries, the Black Sea region, and Central Asia, Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev indicated Bulgaria’s support and intention to actively participate in establishing a Maritime Security Center in the Black Sea, identified as a key objective in the new Strategic Approach. (October 21)
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