Progress on the Recovery and Resilience Plan
Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Pekanov stated on BNT that the main goal of the government is for Bulgaria to absorb over 90% of the funds under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). The successful receipt of the fourth payment amounting to 1 billion BGN is a direct result of implementing long-awaited reforms, including the creation of an independent anti-corruption commission.
"This is a breath of fresh air for the budget, based on reforms that have finally been implemented," Pekanov emphasized.
Upcoming challenges and investments
Pekanov drew attention to the challenges regarding the fifth payment, for which 56 milestones and targets must be reported within 50 days. Despite the administrative burden, the results of the RRP are already visible in key sectors:
- Construction of 2,000 STEM classrooms with modern equipment;
- Modernization of oncology departments and pediatric medical facilities;
- Acquisition of medical helicopters for emergency assistance.
Fiscal stability and budget policy
Regarding the excessive deficit procedure, the Deputy Prime Minister warned about an unsustainable fiscal trajectory where expenditures are growing faster than revenues. Pekanov proposed a plan for gradual fiscal consolidation: "It is not about cutting expenses all at once, but about slow and gradual optimization that will be reflected in this year's budget."
Foreign policy and sanctions
In the context of European sanctions against Russia, Pekanov confirmed that Bulgaria supports the common European line, provided it is not detrimental to national interests. He also recalled the position of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that our country does not support symbolic sanctions, such as those against the Russian Patriarch Kirill.