site.btaPrime Minister Zhelyazkov Meets with PACE President Theodoros Roussopoulos

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov held a meeting with the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Theodoros Roussopoulos, the government's press service reported on Saturday. As a member of Schengen, and soon of the eurozone, Bulgaria continues to strengthen its leading role in stability and growth in the region, the Prime Minister said, noting the these achievements of Bulgarian society show unequivocally that this country is equal to the highest European standards. 

During the meeting, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov introduced Roussopoulos to the priorities in the government's work. He pointed out that after 4 years of political crisis, Bulgaria now has a stable cabinet that can confidently lead the country on its pro-European and pro-Euro-Atlantic path. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the assessment that PACE gave to the elections held in recent years as well-organized and free. Zhelyazkov also expressed his conviction that the post-monitoring dialogue with PACE has already fulfilled its objectives and should be concluded.

For his part, Theodoros Roussopoulos congratulated Bulgaria on the efforts to conclude the post-monitoring dialogue with PACE. In his words, if the country continues to adhere to the implementation of the recommendations, the positive result will be achieved.

Prime Minister Zhelyazkov also stressed the essential role of PACE in the field of law, human rights and democratic development. The Prime Minister highlighted the important role that the Council of Europe should play in protecting the rights of the Bulgarian community in the Republic of North Macedonia. Zhelyazkov expressed confidence that a high forum such as PACE will not be allowed to be used for an anti-Bulgarian campaign.

Zhelyazkov welcomed the decisive actions of the Council of Europe in response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Bulgaria's solidarity with Ukraine and support for its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Zhelyazkov pointed out that this country has already expressed its readiness to join in assisting Ukraine's reconstruction after the war, the statement said.

The Prime Minister added that Bulgaria expects support from PACE for the protection of the Bulgarian community in the Republic of North Macedonia.