Bulgarian MEP Ilhan Küçük welcomed a visiting group from Pazardzhik to the EP, including politically repressed individuals or their heirs.
In his speech, Küçük criticized the way the country is governed for the lack of a clearly expressed and recognizable image of Bulgaria on the European stage. “Unfortunately, over the years our country has failed to build its calling card - a cause, achievement, initiative or policy with which the name Bulgaria would be associated unambiguously and positively in Europe.”, he stressed.
The MEP also emphasized the need for Bulgaria's national position to be formed consistently and strategically in Sofia, through coordination between institutions, and then to be clearly and sustainably defended at the European level through all diplomatic and communication channels.
As a significant problem, he also highlighted the ongoing political crisis in the country. According to Küçük, the frequent series of elections exhausts Bulgarian society and undermines trust in institutions, which inevitably affects Bulgaria's positioning in Europe.
“We are on the verge of new elections and the hope is that after April 19, an opportunity will open up for stabilizing the political environment and for a clearer vision for the country's development. The decisive factor will be the activity of citizens on election day.“.
During the visit, the group learned about the functioning of the European institutions, the role of the European Parliament and the decision-making process in the European Union.