site.btaMinister Sandov Attends EU Environment Council in Brussels

Sofia, December 20 (BTA) - Deputy Prime Minister for Climate Policy and Environment Minster Borislav Sandov attended a European Environment Council meeting in Brussels, said his ministry. This has been the first attendance in two years by a minister of the highest EU forum in the sector.

The agenda includes new legislative proposals by the European Commission in the field of environment. In his address Sandov said that the European policy opens new doors and offers a wide range of opportunities to turn the planet into a better place for living for all.

The Minister argued that climate neutrality cannot be achieved without mobilization and better coordination of measures in a number of important policies. Among them he outlined the promotion of growth and competition, skills development, regional convergence, taxation and research.

According to him, the difficulties in achieving the ambitious goals open possibilities for a more sustainable and better life, for better environment and healthy ecosystems and innovative economy. "In our approach we'll use the necessary attention, responsibility and courage," said the minister.

Sandov conferred with the EU Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries Virginijus Sinkevicius. the two discussed the hard work for closing a number of infringement provceedings against Bulgaria in the area of environment. The Environment Ministry said that the Commissioner underscored that there should be political will to implement high standards of EU policies and create better present for the citizens. Sandov assured Sinkevicijus of the new political course for zero tolerance for corruption and full commitment to achieving a high quality of environment in Bulgaria.

Within the framework of the EU Council the Minister will meet with European Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans. LN/PP