site.btaBulgarian Candidate for Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner Presented

Deputy Foreign Minister Irena Dimitrova presented Meglena Kuneva, Bulgaria's candidate for Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner, to representatives of the diplomatic missions of Council of Europe member states, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

Dimitrova stressed Bulgaria sets a priority on human rights matters in international relations. She highlighted the role of the Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner in maintaining the high standards of the organization and ensuring its effective activity. The Deputy Foreign Minister also noted the undeniable personal qualities and vast professional experience of the Bulgarian candidate, saying the Bulgarian Government is confident that Meglena Kuneva can contribute significantly to the defence of human rights in Europe.

For her part, Kuneva set forth her views on the work of the Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner and answered questions from the diplomats of the Council of Europe member states accredited to Sofia.

This is the first time Bulgaria has nominated a candidate for a senior position in the Council of Europe, the Foreign Ministry said.

The other candidates shortlisted for the post are Manfred Nowak (Austria) and Michael O'Flaherty (Ireland).

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe will elect the new Commissioner during its winter plenary session in Strasbourg (January 22-26). The new Commissioner will take office on April 1.