site.btaTalks between Government, EC Representatives Focus on Western Balkans

Sofia, October 13 (BTA) - Western Balkans' security and EU perspective topped the agenda of talks Friday between Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and government members with European Commission Secretary-General Alexander Italianer and the Head of Cabinet of the President of the European Commission, Martin Selmayr. The EC representatives are on a two-day visit to Bulgaria.

Borissov acquainted the EC delegation with Bulgaria's progress in the forthcoming EC Presidency preparations and the summit meetings on the agenda. These also include a summit dedicated to the Western Balkans, scheduled for May 2018 in Sofia. The initiative continues the discussion of the need of a strong EU commitment to the region.

The meeting is expected to be chaired by the President of the European Council Donald Tusk himself. It will be attended by heads of state or government from all union members.

Bulgaria declares its desire for close cooperation with EU institutions with the aim of the successful organization of the meeting and an outcome of maximum results, the Prime Minister declared. This country is also working with the Estonian Presidency to guarantee maximum continuity of files opened while they are in office, he noted.

In turn, the Minister of Bulgaria's EU Council Presidency, Lilyana Pavlova, acquainted the guests with the idea of building a connection between countries in the Western Balkans, be that economy, energy, transport, infrastructure, communication or digital connection, as well as guaranteeing peace, security and prosperity of the region.

Pavlova also outlined the other priorities of the Bulgarian Presidency related to guaranteeing community security and stability, promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation, care for the prospects of young people and the future of cohesion policy. The Bulgarian Presidency will also focus on the sustainable development of the countries in the Danube and Black Sea regions.

Italianer and Selmayr said that Bulgaria will receive the Commission's support to achieve these priorities in the interest of EU unity and solidarity, as well as to generate fast economic growth in the union. The launch of work of the European Public Prosecutor's Office will be a priority and promotion of the fight against terrorism.Both underscored that they rely on Bulgaria for the promotion of EU trans-border partnerships.

Italianer and Selmayr also confirmed the Commission's intention to continue to insist on Bulgaria's accession to Schengen space and to achieve security, border management and migration IT systems.