The budget for next year is reformist and provides the necessary stability for the adoption of the single European currency. This was stated by the leader of the SDSR, Rumen Hristov, on the air of BNT tonight. According to him, despite the criticism, the financial framework, supported at first reading by 131 deputies, is key to the economic future of the country.
"This budget is reformist because it ensures a smooth transition from lev to euro," stressed Hristov, quoted by the national television.
He defined the budget as "coalition" – combining left-wing and right-wing measures in order to be adopted by the parliamentary majority. According to him, the most important goal remains the technical and economic preparation for membership in the eurozone.
Despite the general support, the leader of the UDF did not hide his disagreement with some of the measures set, in particular the increase in dividend tax and the growth in social security contributions.
"I am not convinced that doubling the dividend tax will lead to greater collection," commented Hristov. He added that the increase in thresholds and social security contributions is an inevitable consequence of sectoral policies that require greater revenues in the treasury.
Rumen Hristov also drew attention to the bloated state administration, which, according to data from the National Statistical Institute, has 558,000 people. According to him, optimizing structures is an imperative step before talking about layoffs.
"We start with optimization, then staffing, and only then, if necessary, layoffs," he explained, drawing a parallel with the structure of the public sector in Greece.
With regard to education, Hristov noted the positive trend of growth in teacher salaries and the entry of young professionals into the system. However, he emphasized the need for a stricter assessment of results, responding to business criticism of the quality of training in schools and universities.
The leader of the UDF also commented on the current geopolitical situation, expressing support for diplomatic initiatives to end the conflict in Ukraine.
"We are all waiting for this peace. The steps that President Trump is taking deserve support," said Hristov.
He recalled that the war is entering its fourth year and every day takes the lives of young people, but stressed that any peaceful solution must be coordinated with Kiev and the European Union.
"Without Ukraine's consent, it is difficult to achieve final results," summarized Rumen Hristov.