site.btaPM Zhelyazkov in Austria: We Must Preserve Growth without Losing Our Social Vision

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said in his speech at the Europa-Forum Wachau in Austria that growth, well-functioning economy and competitiveness need to be maintained but not at the price of destroying "our social vision".

Zhelyazkov said that the core values of Europe are democracy, the rule of law, cooperation and the virtues of Christianity.

One challenge that Zhelyazkov highlighted was the fight against illegal migration. He emphasized that Bulgaria has received recognition for its difficult path towards joining the Schengen area.

The Prime Minister said that restoring peace and security will pose great challenges. He concluded: "Our societies are built on the belief that tomorrow will be better than today."

The theme of this year's edition of the Europa-Forum Wachau is "Facing Challenges - Embracing Visions". The event was first held in 1995 on the occasion of Austria's accession to the EU. It is an established platform that promotes debate on European issues.

Zhelyazkov's remarks followed the address by Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker. The two leaders met in Vienna on Thursday, the first day of Zhelyazkov's two-day visit in Austria.