18.06.2020
"The basic principles of the Eastern Partnership for building a common zone of stability and prosperity, based on shared democratic values, remain relevant. The format must remain an ambitious, flexible and open platform."
This is what Prime Minister Boyko Borissov stated during his participation in the video conference of the Heads of State and Government of the Eastern Partnership countries, including the EU Member States and Eastern European partners: Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine.
Prime Minister Borissov and the other Eastern Partnership leaders discussed the long-term political goals of the format, in line with current challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus of the initiative is on achieving sustainable and integrated economies, responsible institutions and the rule of law, environmental and climate sustainability, digital transformation, just and inclusive societies.
"We attach great importance to cooperation with each of the six eastern partners. One of the main goals of our partnership is to achieve concrete and visible results of direct importance for the lives of citizens," said Prime Minister Boyko Borissov.
"The crisis caused by COVID-19 has, in a sense, become a moment of truth, illustrating the EU's determination to support its partners in difficult times for all of us," said Prime Minister Boyko Borissov. The EU has provided almost 1 billion euros to Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine for urgent needs and to support their socio-economic recovery from the crisis.
The Prime Minister noted the unwavering commitment of Bulgaria and the EU to the territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty of the Eastern partners, reaffirmed in the conclusions of the EU Council of 11 May 2020. "Bulgaria attaches particular importance to strengthening the resilience of our Eastern partners in its various dimensions," concluded Prime Minister Borissov.
