Over the past few weeks, it seems that many politicians in Bulgaria have been trying to suggest that we are entering the eurozone hastily and without preparation. We must say that by fulfilling the criteria, which are not easy at all, we show that our state, economy and society meet some of the most serious economic requirements for Bulgaria to enter the eurozone prepared. This was commented on in the “Interview in NOVA News” by EPP/GERB MEP and rapporteur on Bulgaria's readiness for the eurozone Eva Maydel.
She explained that we expect three reports - from the European Central Bank, the European Commission and the European Parliament. Maidel is confident that it will be noted that the criteria have been met and Bulgaria will receive the green light for our accession to the eurozone.
„My task as rapporteur is to take the report from the European Commission, to collect enough information, to hold meetings with the Bulgarian institutions and then to convince my colleagues in the EP that our country meets the criteria and we are prepared to adopt the euro”, specified Maidel.
The Bulgarian MEP shared that from conversations with his colleagues from various European institutions, he sees confidence that Bulgaria can fully fulfill its European integration by becoming part of the eurozone. „Therefore, the European institutions are ready to provide their political and administrative support in the coming months”, she added.
„As Bulgarians, we should be proud that we have walked a very long and serious path, during which, under different governments and politicians, there has always been broad political agreement to become part of the eurozone. We must take into account this long journey and I believe that colleagues do so”, said Maydel.
After the European Parliament votes on the report, it will be sent for consideration to the Eurogroup, which is composed of the eurozone member states. It is they who will give their final assessment of Bulgaria.
Maydel also commented on the fears of Bulgarians related to the adoption of the euro. “In the last few months, we have seen that a large part of these fears are the result of political abuse, which borders on manipulation and disinformation, and sometimes crosses these boundaries”, emphasized the rapporteur on Bulgaria's readiness.
She commented that the euro is the second strongest currency in the world. She stated that the European countries that are developing best and are economically advanced are part of the eurozone. And the banks in the eurozone are the safest.
„The richest European countries are part of the eurozone. The euro would strengthen Bulgaria's economy and allow incomes to gradually continue to increase, as has been happening in recent years since we have been part of the European Union. Confidence in the euro in each of the countries that have adopted the currency is only growing”, said Maydel.
With positive reports, Maydel specified that we will be able to pay in euros and leva from January 1, 2026. This will be possible for a period of six months, after which we will switch completely to the euro. For a long period of time, leva will be able to be exchanged in different places without additional fees.
„We must all contribute to reducing fears - both administratively and politically. Each of us in society has a role to play in making sure that we understand that this is a long-term plan that we are moving forward with confidence,” the MEP pointed out.
“When we entered the European Union, we were proud Bulgarians. Now we should also be proud that we meet some very complex criteria, that our economy is strong, that we have the opportunity to be part of the countries that are developing best. We want Bulgarian citizens to be there”, concluded Maydel.