site.btaEU Commissioner Dombrovskis: Transition to Euro Places Bulgaria at Europe's Heart

In a congratulatory message, EU Commissioner for Economy and Productivity Valdis Dombrovskis has said that the transition from the lev to euro is more than a currency change, as it places Bulgaria at the heart of Europe.

"Bulgaria has made extraordinary efforts to prepare for the euro, and Bulgarians can be proud of this achievement," he added. "We know that the change can be difficult, but this journey has changed your country for the better. Preparing for the euro has made Bulgaria more resilient and better equipped to today’s challenging economic environment. For example, your financial system has become stronger."

He went on to say that it also leaves Bulgaria better placed to seize the opportunities of euro area membership - simpler payments, easier travel, and lower interest rates. The euro will bring more investment, more growth, and more jobs. In short, more opportunities for Bulgarians. This has been the experience of every country that joins the euro, and it will be the same for Bulgaria.

Dombrovskis concluded: "This is a historic moment for Bulgaria, the euro area, and the European Union. It sends a clear signal to the world that our strength lies in our unity. Together, we move forward."