site.btaCaretaker PM Discusses EU's Security, Defence, Energy, Economic Stability with EP President in Brussels

Caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gurov and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola discussed the key priorities on Europe’s agenda - among them security, defence, energy, and economic stability - during a meeting in Brussels, the government information service said on Wednesday.

The war in Ukraine and developments in the Middle East were highlights of the talks. During the bilateral meeting, it was noted that current global challenges are putting security and the international order to the test. In this context, a unified and coordinated approach by EU Member States was identified as essential for ensuring an effective response to growing risks and for strengthening the European Union’s defence, the statement reads.

Gurov and Metsola agreed that developments in the Middle East should not divert valuable resources from Ukraine, and that the European Union reaffirms its unwavering support for the Ukrainian side.

Both were adamant that the situation in the Middle East requires even stronger coordination among Member States. Protecting citizens in the region remains a key priority. The need for joint efforts to ensure international maritime routes and to prevent risks to trade and energy supplies was also highlighted. It was further stressed that the EU’s economic stability requires coordinated action to limit negative impacts on markets and the investment environment.

The caretaker Prime Minister is in Brussels to attend the regular meeting of the European Council on March 19–20. He will also take part in the Eurozone Summit, where Bulgaria will be represented as a full member for the first time.