Head of State: Dealing with crises requires increasing European competitiveness globally and ensuring EU security

Dealing with the crises facing Europe requires increasing European competitiveness globally and ensuring EU security. This was stated by President Rumen Radev at a meeting with European Council President Antonio Costa within the framework of the Munich Security Conference. The Head of State emphasized that the EU should take action to optimize its common decision-making process so that they respond to the high dynamics of international processes.

The numerous crises in Europe's neighborhood make increasing investments in the field of defense and security a necessity, but the capabilities of each individual country should also be taken into account, what percentage of its GDP it can allocate for this, the President emphasized.

According to Rumen Radev, the stated ambition of the Western Balkan countries to join the EU is an opportunity to expand the space based on the principles of democracy and the rule of law and will strengthen the stability of our region. In this regard, President Radev expressed hope that the Republic of North Macedonia will begin the actual implementation of the 2022 European Consensus as soon as possible. Bulgaria does not make new demands regarding the European perspective of the RNM, but also does not accept changes to the agreements reached, enshrined in the negotiating framework, the head of state added.

Earlier, Rumen Radev held a meeting with the Director General of the European Space Agency /ESA/ Josef Aschbacher, during which a review of our country's partnership with the Agency in space exploration was made. The necessary steps that Bulgaria should take in order to fully participate in its programs and become a full member of ESA were also discussed.

In Munich, Rumen Radev also spoke with the President and CEO of Siemens Energy Christian Baruch, with whom he discussed the possibilities for expanding the company's investment presence in Bulgaria.