Minister Donchev: Good cooperation between Bulgaria and the EC is fundamental for the development of innovations and modernization of the Bulgarian economy

The partnership between Bulgaria and the European Commission is a key factor in achieving success in the field of innovation, science and industry. The Ministry of Innovation and Growth will develop the economy in sectors with high added value. This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovation and Growth Tomislav Donchev during a working meeting with the European Commissioner for Start-ups, Research and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva.

The two discussed the development of Bulgarian industry, the enormous potential of our country in terms of research, innovation and talent, the challenges, but also the opportunities that artificial intelligence provides, as well as the financial instruments to support young entrepreneurs and start-ups.

"The Ministry of Innovation and Growth is key, because the focus of the whole of Europe is precisely innovations, which are directly related to growth," said European Commissioner Zaharieva. During the conversation, Minister Donchev and European Commissioner Zaharieva also emphasized the need for measures to retain young scientists and entrepreneurs in Bulgaria and Europe. "Europe is an accelerator of talents and we must do everything possible to retain them," Zaharieva was categorical.

"If we want our industry to follow the good examples in other countries, we must provide it with the tools they have. We must be particularly careful with regard to public funding. In no case should it be at the expense of private investment. Empty incubators and industrial zones where no investors will appear should not be financed, but innovations should not be denied either,” said the Minister of Innovation and Growth.

He stressed that Bulgaria’s accession to the eurozone is a strategic priority that will bring us closer to the core of the EU. “This means enormous security for everyone who works and does business in our country, as well as for all new investors,” Donchev added.

European Commissioner Zaharieva also emphasized that she will work in direct coordination with member states to ease regulations for innovative start-ups at the state level. According to her, bringing an innovation to the market should be as easy and fast as possible.