“The enlargement of the European Union is not only a historical commitment, it is also a strategic priority. It is an investment in the security, stability and prosperity of the whole continent. Enlargement of the Union also puts challenges before us, though, more complex decision-making mechanisms, the need to adapt the budget and to increase trust in democracy.” This was stated by the head of the Delegation of Bulgarian Socialists in the European Parliament Kristian Vigenin in Brussels, during the plenary debate on the institutional and political consequences of EU enlargement. He noted that the removal of the principle of unanimity is often proposed as a universal solution, but the truth is that there is not enough trust between member states.

“As a representative of Bulgaria, one of the last countries to join, I want to say clearly: the responsibility in the EU enlargement process runs both ways. The candidates for membership also have to do their work and make the necessary changes so that they apply European standards in every area,” Kristian Vigenin commented. In his view this is the only way the process will keep the support of citizens, both in the candidate countries and in the member states, so that a common future is achieved in which every European feels supported and equal.

During the discussion of the reports on the progress of Moldova towards joining the Union, Kristian Vigenin said the country is an example of consistent progress on the path to European Union membership: “Only two years after submitting its application, Moldova not only received candidate status but also started accession negotiations. This is an expression of real political will, despite the severe domestic and foreign policy challenges.” He added that the referendum last year clearly showed that European integration for Moldova is not simply a geopolitical choice, but a choice of values.

“The European Union remains committed and will continue to support Moldova, but success depends above all on Moldova itself. The pace of meeting the commitments made has to be kept up. The biggest challenges in the long term remain the rule of law and the fight against corruption, as well as a lasting solution to the conflict in Transnistria,” Vigenin also noted.

The MEP congratulated the authorities in the country, who helped this year in opening a branch of the Bulgarian University of Ruse in Taraclia: “This is a strategic contribution to European integration through education. I count on the support for the Bulgarian community in Moldova being maintained in other aspects of state policy too.”