site.btaPrime Minister Borissov Confers with EU President Tusk

Sofia, January 11 (BTA) - Prime Minister Boyko Borissov conferred here on Thursday with President of the EU Council Donald Tusk as part of the official opening of the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU, Cabinet's Press Service reported.

The Bulgarian Government leader said that the topic of the Western Balkans' integration remains a priority during the Bulgarian EU Presidency and this country will count on the support of all European institutions and Member States.

"The European aspirations of the Western Balkan countries' citizens will bring together all leaders to the table. I know this will be a long process, but it is a process that teaches us reconciliation and how to start looking ahead. My colleagues' expectations are that the EU integration process will be accelerated," Borissov said.

Borissov and Tusk have agreed that the integration of the Western Balkan countries is important not only for the region, but for the whole EU. The two have discussed opportunities in infrastructure and connectivity in the region. Donald Tusk expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Borissov's initiative to hold a Summit in Sofia on May 17, during which the EU leaders are to discuss the Western Balkans topic. Borissov and Tusk have also discussed the Summit's organization, which they will host.

The Bulgarian Prime Minister noted that improving the dialogue with Turkey must be based on consensus, calmness and wise decisions. The policy of alienation must not continue, because Turkey is a strategic partner to Bulgaria and the EU in countering migration, he said.

Borissov assured Tusk that Bulgaria is ready for its first EU Presidency and will seek balance and consensus on current EU topics.