Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova insisted that the European Union should establish itself as a more effective geopolitical actor, fully capable of defending common European interests and actively contributing to finding solutions to crises in our immediate neighborhood. Minister Petrova expressed this position during the informal meeting of foreign ministers of the European Union member states, known as "Gymnich," which took place in Ireland, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported.

In this context, Minister Petrova emphasized the need for Europe to play an active role in diplomatic efforts aimed at ending hostilities and achieving sustainable peace in both Ukraine and the Middle East. In her words, the Union must be an integral part of the diplomatic process and the search for concrete solutions.

In addition to discussing conflicts, the foreign ministers explored opportunities to increase the effectiveness of the EU's external action. The discussions focused on further deepening coordination between the European External Action Service, member states, and European institutions. Regarding the situation in Ukraine, Velislava Petrova highlighted the significance of the Vertical Gas Corridor — a project in which Bulgaria plays a leading role — as a key element for diversifying gas supplies for the country.

The informal "Gymnich" council is not intended to adopt decisions, but rather provides an opportunity for an open political exchange of views on strategic issues facing the EU and for a clear presentation of national positions. The forum gave the Bulgarian minister an opportunity to discuss the Union's future budget and projects of importance to Bulgaria with her colleagues. The meeting was also attended by the foreign ministers of Canada, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine.

During her visit to Ireland, Minister Petrova visited Eurofound, the European agency committed to improving living and working conditions, employment, and industrial relations. The focus of the talks was on labor market changes and the need for policies that respond to new demographic and technological realities, including digitalization and the development of artificial intelligence.

BTA recalls that today, opposition parliamentary forces called for the convening of the Consultative Council on National Security (CCNS) following the attack in Leipzig, while according to "Progressive Bulgaria," there is no such urgent necessity.