Vigenin: The sovereignty of every state and the right to self-determination must be protected

„States must be respected, however large and strong they are. Sovereignty and the right to self-determination are principles we have always defended and will go on defending.“ 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 on the programme The World and Us on BNT.

He stressed that the European socialists are categorical in their support for Denmark and for Greenland’s right to make its own choice as part of a given state. In his words this case goes beyond the particular situation and raises a question of principle about the way international relations are conducted today, including about the gross violation of international law.

„The topic of sovereignty and of the right to self-determination has always been a leading one for us“, Vigenin stressed, noting that it is shocking when even the closest partners begin to cast doubt on the territorial integrity and sovereignty of European Union member states.

Trade measures and the Mercosur agreement

On the economic and trade measures being discussed, the MEP said that the European Union must be flexible and innovative in its approach. „It is best not to come to such measures, and for dialogue to continue so that solutions can be sought“, he pointed out, noting that the use of economic instruments would lead to serious losses for both the United States and Europe. In his view the EU must be prepared to respond, but should work so that it does not become necessary.

In the context of the trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries, Vigenin said he is not inclined to idealise it, despite the opportunities it opens up. In his words there will be both winning and losing sectors, especially in agriculture, which calls for a careful and balanced approach and for thinking about support for the sectors affected. He emphasised that cheaper goods are in consumers’ interest, but that at the same time producers need to be protected.

Ukraine and the Middle East

On the war in Ukraine, Vigenin pointed out that as of today the European Union is further from peace than it was a few weeks ago, since it is forced to defend its own sovereignty as well. Nevertheless he expressed moderate optimism, stressing that the efforts for peace continue, but that without the engagement and support of the United States a lasting settlement of the conflict cannot be achieved.

On the situation in the Middle East and the protests in Iran, Kristian Vigenin said the questions are exceptionally complex but that the European Parliament is ready to respond. „People have the right to express their opinion, and when it is silenced they come out onto the street. They must be heard, not crushed“, he stressed, expressing the hope that peace will be lastingly established in Gaza.