President to EU ambassadors: Accumulated problems need new model of governance

Bulgarian citizens, who are protesting today across the country, demand transparency, accountability and responsibility in the work of the institutions. These should be inalienable principles of governance, regardless of who is in power. This was stated by Bulgaria’s President Rumen Radev at a working meeting today with the ambassadors of the Member States of the European Union and Switzerland in Bulgaria, which was held at Boyana residence.

Vice President Iliana Yotova also took part in the meeting.

The protesting citizens are a guarantor for the future of democracy in Bulgaria, diplomatic representatives said.

The head of state stressed that the accumulated social problems require a new governance model that would increase civilian control over institutions and the responsibility of the government.

Changes are also needed in the justice system to strengthen its independence, and especially in the work of the Prosecutor’s office which is expected to be objective and to ensure the rule of law.

"Justice is the immune system of society, and when it is weak and dependent, it affects the entire political, economic and social life in the country," he said.

Rumen Radev added that the consultations on changes to the Constitution, which started on his initiative, continue.

The protesting citizens are a guarantor for the future of democracy in Bulgaria, said the diplomatic representatives. According to them, Bulgaria has the full right to be an equal member of the European Union, and Bulgarian citizens to have a dignified life in the common European family.

As the main preconditions for increasing foreign investments in the Bulgarian economy, the diplomats highlighted the need for a predictable business environment and effective counteraction to corruption.

The head of state expressed the ambition and opportunities of our country to attract much more investment, to produce more and with higher added value.

Rumen Radev again highlighted the need for growth of investments in the development of human capital in our country, as well as for equal distribution of the scientific and educational infrastructure in Europe, as the most effective measure for sustainable social and economic cohesion.

The presidential institution remains committed to preparing Bulgaria to host in 2021 the regional initiative "Three Seas" to promote transport, energy and digital connectivity in Eastern Europe, said at the meeting President Radev.

The head of state reminded that the rotating chairmanship of the dialogue platform should be taken over by the Black Sea state, and Bulgaria's candidacy has already been approved by the participating countries.

During the meeting, the head of state and the vice president raised questions about the future of EU Cohesion Policy, the formation of the European budget after Brexit, the need to implement the European "Green Deal" not to lose the competitiveness of economies whose energy mix relies on the use of coal, and other topics on the European agenda and Bulgaria's bilateral relations with EU member states and Switzerland.

Чуйте последните новини, където и да сте!
Последвайте ни във Facebook и Instagram
Следете и канала на БНТ в YouTube
Вече може да ни гледате и в TikTok
Намерете ни в Google News