site.btaProgressive Bulgaria Vows Swift Measures Against Inflation and Rising Prices

Deputy Parliament Chair Ivan Angelov of Progressive Bulgaria said the incoming regular government would take rapid measures to curb inflation and rising prices. He outlined the coalition's priorities ahead of taking power.

"We will take all necessary measures within a short timeframe to bring inflationary processes and soaring prices under control," Angelov told journalists on Wednesday.

He said Progressive Bulgaria would stand by the commitments made during the election campaign, including continuing efforts for judicial reform, changes to the Supreme Judicial Council and the procedure for electing a new prosecutor general.

Angelov added that reforms would also target broader areas of the country's socio-economic life.

Commenting on opposition criticism over remarks by Progressive Bulgaria MP Galab Donev regarding a possible increase in the debt ceiling, Angelov said the coalition had information showing a record-high budget deficit as of March 31.

"That inevitably affects the condition of the state and the challenges facing the new government. We have to put out fires instead of continuing to move boldly forward," he said.

Asked whether Bulgaria would remain trapped in a cycle of growing debt and new borrowing, Angelov said a detailed analysis was needed before clear conclusions could be drawn.

"Let us make a reasonable analysis and very soon you will see all the measures and feel their effects," he said.

Angelov attended the blessing ceremony of military battle flags at the Monument to the Unknown Soldier in Sofia on the occasion of May 6, the Day of Valour and the Bulgarian Armed Forces.

He congratulated members of the armed forces and said the new government would continue supporting the modernization of the Bulgarian Army and fulfilling Bulgaria's commitments within the international structures of which it is a member.