„I see a strategic problem with NATO's decisions. There is a global movement towards armament, but the more you prepare for a potential war, the more the possibility of it happening increases. It is better for NATO countries to use their economic, financial and political resources to reduce tension, not for an arms race.“ This was stated by the head of the Delegation of the Bulgarian Socialists in the European Parliament and member of the BSP EB Christian Vigenin to BNT.
„5% of GDP for armament, which Bulgaria agreed to at the NATO summit in The Hague, is a very high share, and must be reached within 10 years. Our country should not rush. Some member states and 2% of GDP are not yet there“, said Vigenin. He explained that 3.5% of the approved 5% are for hard defense, and the rest are for building infrastructure. The goals will be reviewed again in 2029. “Security also includes health systems, the ability to respond quickly to health crises, so let's make efforts to protect investments in the social and health sectors“, commented the MEP. He also stressed that the funds that Bulgaria will allocate for rearmament should remain primarily in the Bulgarian defense industry.
“The process of joining the eurozone is underway. What we need to do is to prepare seriously for January 1, 2026“, said Christian Vigenin. According to him, there is a feeling that inflation is higher than officially reported, but its real calculation includes many components and the institutions present a real picture.
“I do not see the need to enter into a direct confrontation with the president about the eurozone. He expresses the attitude of a significant part of Bulgarian society. His concerns must be answered with concrete actions and decisions“, the MEP believes. Christian Vigenin specified that the head of state is trying to maintain a pragmatic approach, to pose the questions that cause concern and that need to receive real answers, for example - what are the institutions and the government doing about the problems with speculation and income. “It is evident that the institutions are already acting“, the MEP noted. He warned that there will be sabotage and lies, but that is precisely why clear and accurate information is needed.
On the issue of a possible left-wing candidacy for president, Vigenin noted that it is still too early to be specific, the official nominations will take place next year. “We have the ambition to field a strong candidate. Bulgaria needs a stable president, sensitive to social issues. We need a figure who will give people a sense of security, especially in times of political and social turbulence“, he emphasized.
For contact with the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the EP: https://www.socialistsanddemocrats.eu/