PM Borissov, EC President-Elect Von der Leyen Meet

Prime Minister Boyko Borissov met with Ursula von der Leyen, President-elect of the European Commission, who arrived in Sofia Thursday afternoon, the Government Information Service said. Von der Leyen's visit is part of her consultations with the leaders of the EU Member States prior to submitting the new Commission to a vote of approval by the European Parliament.

The two officials made statements before their working meeting.

Von der Leyen said she was eager to continue the good cooperation with the Prime Minister and the Bulgarian Commissioner. She said she is confident that great decisions will be found for a substantially important portfolio for Bulgaria because the Commission needs the expertise. What is needed is to work for economic development, but also to meet the public's needs, she told reporters.

Von der Leyen noted the importance of unity in Europe and of achieving a balance within the EU so as to face the challenges, including digitization, demographic changes, climate change and security. She stressed that a new approach to migration should be worked out.

The Commission's President-elect is impressed with Bulgaria's high GDP growth and achievements in employment. She said this country is prospering and is ready for investment in innovation and R&D, which she sees as its strength.

For his part, Borissov said the President-elect of the European Commission is well aware of the Bulgarian Government's priorities regarding its commissioner's portfolio. It is people, not just digitization, that are important. Central and Eastern Europe have a huge potential. The West must invest heavily now to improve the skills and competitiveness of the countries of Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans, the Prime Minister said.

Earlier in August, Borissov said Bulgaria would try to retain the Digital Economy portfolio with the addition of Cybersecurity. The nominee for the post is the current Commissioner, Mariya Gabriel.

Von der Leyen was elected European Commission President in July to become the first woman in this post.