site.btaBoyko Borissov Discusses Bulgarian EU Presidency with Ex-Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti

Sofia, October 10 (BTA) - Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov briefed former Italian prime minister Mario Monti on the priorities of the Bulgarian Presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2018, the government press service in Sofia reported on Tuesday. Monti, who has much experience in European politics, is in Sofia for a conference on "The Future of Europe and Bulgaria's Prospects."

Monti expressed his full support for the priorities of the Bulgarian EU Presidency relating to security, a continuing cohesion policy and the promotion of economic competitiveness. He singled out the Western Balkans as a particularly important subject. He believes that Bulgaria can send a strong message to Europe by hosting a Western Balkans Summit during the Bulgarian EU Presidency.

Borissov said his country relies on a clear and positive programme oriented towards the future and towards achieving concrete results. According to him, European citizens expect greater security, more jobs and a strong EU presence in the international arena, and the Bulgarian EU Presidency will work along these lines.

During the meeting, Monti was accompanied by former Bulgarian foreign minister Ivailo Kalfin, who used to work with him in the EU High-Level Group on Own Resources.