„States must be respected, no matter how big and strong they are. Sovereignty and the right to self-determination are principles that we have always defended and will continue to defend.“
This comment was made by the Bulgarian MEP from the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament, Kristian Vigenin, in the program “The World and We” on BNT.
He emphasized that European socialists are categorical in their support for Denmark and for the right of Greenland to make its own choice as part of a certain state. According to him, this case goes beyond the specific situation and raises a fundamental question about the way international relations are conducted today, including the gross violation of international law.
“The issue of sovereignty and the right to self-determination has always been a leading one for us“, Vigenin emphasized, noting that it is shocking when even the closest partners begin to question the territorial integrity and sovereignty of European Union member states.
Regarding the economic and trade measures under discussion, the MEP stated that the European Union must be flexible and innovative in its approach. “It is best not to reach such measures, for the dialogue to continue in order to seek solutions“, he pointed out, noting that the use of economic instruments would lead to serious losses for both the United States and Europe. In his opinion, the EU must be prepared for a response, but work to ensure that it is not necessary.
In the context of the trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries, Vigenin stated that he was not inclined to idealize it, despite the opportunities it opens up. According to him, there will be both winning and losing sectors, especially in agriculture, which requires a careful and balanced approach and thinking to support the affected industries. He emphasized that cheaper goods are in the interest of consumers, but at the same time it is necessary to protect producers.
On the topic of the war in Ukraine, Vigenin pointed out that to date the European Union is further from peace than a few weeks ago, as it is also forced to defend its own sovereignty. However, he expressed moderate optimism, stressing that peace efforts continue, but without the commitment and support of the United States, a lasting settlement of the conflict cannot be achieved.
Regarding the situation in the Middle East and the protests in Iran Christian Vigenin said that the issues were extremely complex, but the European Parliament was ready to react. “People have the right to express their opinion and when it is silenced, they take to the streets. They should be heard, not crushed“, he stressed and expressed hope for a lasting peace in Gaza.
For contact with the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament:
https://www.socialistsanddemocrats.eu/