site.btaPresident Radev Says Strong Economy Is Key to Preserving National Sovereignty

Bulgaria's President Rumen Radev Friday met with Eurogroup President Paschal Donohoe, who is also Ireland's Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, the President's press secretariat said.

Radev said a strong competitive economy is the most reliable factor in preserving national sovereignty, achieving sustainable growth and creating a solid foundation for further deepening of Bulgaria's European integration process. He stressed that predictability of supplies and low prices of energy resources are key to economic stability and competitiveness. In this context, Radev highlighted Bulgaria's achievements - including through the actions of the caretaker government - in ensuring the stability and reliability of energy supplies during a series of crises.

Paschal Donohoe talked about his meetings in Sofia so far. He expressed readiness to support the Bulgarian government in its efforts to meet all the economic criteria for joining the euro area, highlighting the importance of curbing inflation.

The two concurred that Bulgaria and Ireland should deepen their cooperation. Radev extended an invitation to Irish President Michael Higgins to visit Bulgaria.