Macron to Denkov: I appreciate the courage shown by the Bulgarian authorities since the beginning of the war in Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated the Bulgarian authorities for the courage they have shown since the beginning of the war in Ukraine and the fact that the country has changed the model of its relations with Russia.

"I appreciate the courage shown by the Bulgarian authorities since the beginning of the war in Ukraine and the fact that they have changed the model of their relations with Russia," Macron said on February 21, adding that the EU should play a greater role in ensuring its own security and defence capabilities.

The French President welcomed the Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov at the Elysee Palace. Denkov is on a one-day visit to Paris. Apart from the common solidarity towards Ukraine and efforts to improve the European security environment, Macron highlighted cooperation in the field of nuclear energy and economy as common ground between Bulgaria and France.

"Nuclear energy is a guarantee for energy security and decarbonisation," he stressed.

Macron also congratulated the Bulgarian authorities for their efforts to further European integration by joining Schengen and efforts to join the euro area.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov pointed out that Bulgaria’s motto "United we stands strong" seems more important today than ever. He assured that the Bulgarian government and parliamentary majority would continue to support Ukraine and its people, both through national efforts and through international forms of cooperation.

"That is why Bulgaria has already met its target of 2% of GDP in defence spending and continues to do so, stepping up its capabilities and joining in strengthening NATO's South-Eastern flank," Denkov said.

He reminded that Bulgaria is preparing to join the euro area on 1 January 2025 and is working on overcoming Austria's veto on land-based Schengen. Bulgaria's accession to the OECD also remains a priority.

"Deep gratitude to France for supporting our efforts in these areas. By going through these steps, Bulgaria will become an even stronger partner that actively fulfils its obligations," Denkov said.