Finance Minister Assen Vassilev: Corruption in Bulgaria has taken deep roots and the fight against it will be difficult and long

The fight against corruption is the driving force that Bulgaria should use if it wants to become a normal European country, wealthier and better, Assen Vassilev, said at the opening of a Sofia conference on Strengthening Transparency and Governance through Collective Action in Bulgaria, held on October 10.

"Corruption in Bulgaria has taken deep roots. It has infiltrated trade unions, employers' organisations, the economy and all spheres of society. The fight will be difficult and long. An example from the past 3 months - Bulgaria made steps in the National Assembly such as changes in the anti-corruption commission; investigation of the Prosecutor General if there is sufficient evidence they have committed a crime; adoption of amendments to the Constitution at first reading, which is a great success. However, the Law on the Public Procurement Act was adopted with two exceptions. The first one did not refuse the parties to support the text that private hospitals should make public procurements in case of supplies with public resources. This shows that when there is a serious financial interest, corruption permeates everywhere. The other thing that was not adopted is that forestry should also be leased out under the Public Procurement Act. So we have to be persistent, remember the unfinished business and finish it next time. We are at the beginning of the battle. We still have a lot of serious reforms to do and I believe that Bulgaria will then become leading in the EU. It is down to our generation to lead the battle and we will fight till the end," Vassilev concluded.

United States Ambassador, Kenneth Merten, said that transparent enforcement of legislation is important not only for democracy but also for prosperity. It is important for Bulgaria to note that much has been achieved in the last year for the rule of law, he said, referring to a number of legislative changes adopted by the Parliament. He praised the work of NGOs in the fight against corruption. Taking more steps against corruption will enable more foreign investment. The government is not the only one that has to fight corruption. You have partners and we are with you, the US Ambassador further stressed.