“Regardless of the fact that the effective date predetermines the terms in which certain measures and actions are implemented, the Bulgarian government is already in a mode of smooth introduction of the euro. We are guided by three principles – "smooth and calm, and not spontaneous introduction of the European currency, there must be calm, predictability and transparency of the processes," said Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov at a briefing at the Council of Ministers.
„The second principle is to prevent all possibilities for imposing unfair commercial practices for speculating with overcharges, prices and abusing the trust of Bulgarian citizens, consumers of goods and services, as well as those who are regulated“, he added.
According to him, the positive assessments by the European Commission and the European Central Bank will be formalized with decisions on July 8 – of the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. This will formally begin the process of introducing the euro from January 1, 2026.
„This is a reason for pride for Bulgarian society – a society that, since the late 1990s, has taken a dream path for a generation of Bulgarians to be part of the union of free and developed European countries. It has gone through many difficulties - financial, banking, debt crisis, political crises, COVID crisis, energy crises, but Bulgarians have steadfastly, patiently, with a lot of work, diligence and many hardships managed to achieve what others have not been able to achieve“, noted Zhelyazkov.
The Prime Minister also said that today the government has adopted a decision to create a mechanism for coordinating all activities to prevent practices that may compromise trust in the euro.
„A draft memorandum was also adopted with all suppliers of goods and services in partnership with chains, associations, industry organizations, employers and unions. We will make sure that the process is smooth, justified and that all potential benefits are seen. The benefits, unlike short-term concerns, will be those observed in all countries that have adopted the euro - stimulation of the economy, trade, investment, tourism, growth in the economy and, above all, an increase in income and purchasing power, assured Rosen Zhelyazkov.