site.btaOperation of Mining Complexes Is Matter of National Security for Bulgaria, Says MEP Andrey Novakov in Stara Zagora

The operation of the mining complexes is not just a problem for Stara Zagora, nor is it merely about energy security; it is closely linked to Bulgaria's national security, said MEP Andrey Novakov during a local conference as part of BTA's Europe on Balkans: Cohesion Skills project. The conference was held at the BTA National Press Club in Stara Zagora on Wednesday.

Stara Zagora has become a central hub for the implementation of significant European policies in Bulgaria over the past few years, particularly due to the Mini Maritsa Iztok Complex, Novakov underscored. "I am confident that those familiar with the operation of the complex understand that, in turbulent times, if necessary, the thermal power plants can provide nearly complete power supply to critical infrastructure and consumers in Bulgaria, without external assistance," he said.

He noted that most Bulgarian MEPs share his opinion and emphasized that it is time to recognize that this is not a resource Bulgaria can afford to abandon lightly. He also mentioned that a declaration had been issued by all Bulgarian members of the European People's Party, which he expects will be signed by other MEPs. "In it, we call for a reassessment of the Green Deal in terms of energy, a reevaluation of nuclear energy, and the possibility of using coal-fired power plants as a reserve to support the energy system, especially considering the growing security threats in the region," Novakov said.

"From now on, Europe will be the shoemaker of its own boots. If, until now, we have been comfortably relying on the United States of America as an ally and partner, we must now take care of ourselves. This means assessing what we have and determining whether it is the right time to give it up for the noble goal of protecting the environment," Novakov emphasized. He added that the current priority is to ensure the security and stability of the Eastern flank of the European Union and NATO in every sense.

Novakov also highlighted that Bulgaria's next major goal is joining the eurozone, expressing his disappointment with the current situation in Sofia. He stressed that history shows that in many countries where the European currency has been adopted, people have not become poorer; in fact, the opposite is often true. "No one loses their national identity by adopting a common currency," he said, adding that the euro is Bulgaria’s insurance policy for European development, higher incomes, and a stable business and banking environment.

The euro is one of the safest currencies in the world, and the long-term risk is lower, Novakov emphasized. "Europe is entering a crucial phase. We are beginning negotiations on the EU's seven-year budget, which means setting priorities for the entire continent, including key areas that will receive billions in funding," he pointed out. "Now is the time to gather people’s perspectives to ensure they don't feel that Brussels is making decisions that exclude them. [...] People are part of the solution, not just its implementation," Novakov concluded.

BTA's Europe on Balkans: Cohesion Skills project aims to raise public awareness and foster open dialogue about cohesion policy, local achievements, and the implementation of the EU's policy priorities. The project kicked off with a conference in Veliki Preslav in November 2024. Until September 2025, BTA will host discussions at its press clubs in the following cities: Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Vidin, Vratsa, Gabrovo, Dobrich, Kazanlak, Kardzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Pleven, Razgrad, Ruse, Samokov, Svishtov, Sliven, Smolyan, Sofia, Stara Zagora, Troyan, Targovishte, Haskovo, Shumen, and Yambol. Cross-border conferences will be held in Belgrade, Bosilegrad, Bucharest, Edirne, Skopje, and Thessaloniki. The project builds on the Europe in the Balkans: A Common Future and Europe in Bulgaria: A Common Future projects, implemented by BTA in 2023 and 2024, respectively.