site.btaBulgarian PM Confers with Presidents of EC, EP and European Council

Bulgaria is ready to act as a responsible and active partner within the European Union’s monetary union, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said Thursday during meetings with EU leaders in Brussels ahead of the European Council session, the government press office reported. 

Zhelyazkov told European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro is the result of consistent reforms and sustained efforts, and is expected to contribute to economic stability, greater confidence, and new opportunities for citizens and businesses. 

Before the start of the European Council meeting, the Prime Minister also held talks with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and European Council President Antonio Costa.

During the meetings, Zhelyazkov presented the three EU leaders with a set of Bulgarian euro coins and thanked European institutions for their continued support throughout Bulgaria’s accession process to the euro area. He also explained the national symbols featured on the reverse of the coins, which reflect Bulgaria’s history, cultural identity, and place within the European family.

In his conversation with von der Leyen, Zhelyazkov highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue and expert assistance from the European Commission at all stages of Bulgaria’s preparation for euro adoption, describing this support as crucial for the successful completion of the process and for full integration. He said that membership in the euro area represents the final step in Bulgaria’s integration into the EU’s economic and financial structures.

During his meeting with Metsola, the Prime Minister emphasized that the backing of EU institutions is a clear sign of trust in Bulgaria and recognition of the country’s sustained efforts to meet all required criteria. He said the government has taken all necessary measures to ensure a smooth, transparent and successful transition to the euro, and thanked Metsola for her consistent support for Bulgaria’s accession to both the euro area and the Schengen zone.

In talks with European Council President Antonio Costa, Zhelyazkov said that Bulgaria’s accession to the euro area on January 1, 2026 would strengthen the European Union as a whole. He added that euro adoption is expected to bring increased economic stability and new opportunities for Bulgarian citizens and businesses.