Ekaterina Zaharieva Receives Bundestag Members
08 March 2018 News
Deputy Prime Minister Ekaterina Zaharieva today received a delegation of the Committee on the Affairs of the European Union at the Parliament of the Federal Republic of Germany, headed by Committee Chairman Gunther Krichbaum.
Topics on the current agenda of the European Union within the context of the Bulgarian Presidency, the European perspective of the Western Balkans, Schengen, Bulgaria’s entry into the eurozone and the Middle East situation were discussed with the Bundestag members.
“The citizens of the Western Balkan countries must get a European perspective now. Otherwise, the entire Union may have to face the consequences. Failing this, there will be no void in the region since other geopolitical forces also show interest in it,” Ekaterina Zaharieva said. Gunther Krichbaum confirmed the importance of sending positive signals to the countries of the region.
The sides were unanimous that migration pressure on Europe will remain a challenge to the Union in the coming years and that Member States must redouble their efforts to address this issue. In their shared opinion, enhanced cooperation with the countries of origin and the transit countries is essential for the suppression of illegal migration.
“Our country has proved capable of guaranteeing the security of the Union’s external borders. Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen will enhance our contribution to common European security,” Zaharieva commented during her session with the German MPs.
Bulgaria’s entry into the eurozone was also discussed at the meeting. “It is our choice. We want to be part of the eurozone, and I believe that we will be ready for this within a couple of years. Bulgaria’s economy is growing steadily,” Ekaterina Zaharieva stressed.
The Middle East situation also figured on the agenda. “What has been going on in Syria for a month now gives us a cause for concern. Instead of de-escalating, tensions are apparently mounting,” the Bulgarian Foreign Minister commented. Zaharieva added that a more categorical message from the international community on this issue is needed.
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