The Anti-Corruption Commission – Key to European Funding

The new anti-corruption commission is expected to be operational by the end of August, which will allow for the unfreezing of 370 million euros for Bulgaria. Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Pekanov emphasized that this body is a mandatory condition for progress on the Recovery and Resilience Plan.

"The new structure will not repeat the bad practices of the previous one, which was used for political pressure," Pekanov assured.

Status of payments and infrastructure challenges

  • 19 out of 25 steps for the fourth payment have been completed.
  • The deadline for the commitments regarding the fifth payment is August 31.
  • Delays in infrastructure projects such as helicopter hangars and new locomotives.

Inflation and commodity prices

Pekanov called on regulators to exercise strict control over trade practices, noting that unjustifiably high prices in Sofia compared to other European capitals are unacceptable.

Position on the war in Ukraine

The Deputy Prime Minister confirmed support for Kyiv but urged Europe to seek a diplomatic exit. According to him, it is necessary for Europe to be an active participant in future peace negotiations, rather than remaining on the periphery of the processes.