site.btaBulgarian Justice, Foreign Ministers Rejoice at EC Decision to Close Cooperation and Verification Mechanism for Bulgaria

In a joint press release, Bulgaria’s Foreign and Justice Ministries assessed the European Commission’s Friday decision to close the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism (CVM) for Bulgaria and Romania.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel said that this is an acknowledgement and unreserved appreciation of the work done by Bulgaria’s Government and National Assembly to ensure this country implemented fundamental and sustainable rule-of-law reforms. These reforms clearly demonstrate Bulgaria’s ability to fulfill its obligations as a predictable and reliable member of the European Union. Gabriel also added that the closing of the mechanism is a recognition of the long-standing vigorous efforts of Bulgaria's citizens and civil society.

Justice Minister Atanas Slavov added: "Today's decision of the European Commission is a significant success and a recognition of the rule-of-law reforms that are taking place in Bulgaria. This significantly enhances the credibility of the Bulgarian justice system and will have a positive impact on the process of Bulgaria's Schengen and eurozone integration."

The Cooperation and Verification Mechanism was introduced at the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the European Union in 2007 as a transitional measure to facilitate progress in the fields of judicial reform and anti-corruption, as well as on organized crime for Bulgaria.