President Radev: I expect EU to prove that it is a union based on rules

Russia's war against Ukraine is raging for a second year. Bulgaria should be in Schengen," President Rumen Radev said on February 8 at the opening of the traditional reception for the heads of diplomatic missions accredited in Bulgaria. He welcomed them at the National History Museum in Sofia.

"It has been a year of deepening challenges, that have made the world even more anxious and difficult to predict. A year in which the efforts of Bulgarian foreign policy have been aimed at ensuring stability and security based on dialogue and cooperation. A year in which Bulgaria was open, sympathetic and in solidarity," President Rumen Radev said.

Radev also recalled that Bulgaria was among the first countries to send teams to Turkey after the devastating earthquake. The Head of State also spoke about the war in Ukraine and the conflicts.

Russia's devastating war against Ukraine is raging close to us for the second year. Every day of this war brings hundreds of human casualties, destruction and immense suffering. Every day of this war is a threat to global peace, security and economic development, Rumen Radev told the diplomats.

“But not only that - we are witnessing new conflicts that bring instability, escalation, and destructiveness not only in the Middle East, but in many other hotspots around the world," Radev added.

Before more than 70 diplomats, Radev also spoke about Schengen.

"I expect the European Union to prove that it is a union based on rules and that Bulgaria and Romania can no longer be outside the full-fledged Schengen area, although we have fulfilled all the necessary criteria and conditions. Our membership in the OECD and the euro area will continue to be among the strategic priorities," Radev said.

The Head of State also spoke about the new challenges in the world - climate change, artificial intelligence, disinformation, demography.

"Against this backdrop, Bulgaria continues to contribute to ensuring peace and stability, strengthening NATO's defence potential, strengthening the European security system, deepening the integration of military science and industry among the member states," the President added.

On behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador of the Republic of Lebanon H.E. Mr. Toufic Jaber delivered a speech, pointing out that Bulgaria has many riches and the Bulgarian people are always ready to help.

The reception was not attended by the Russian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Eleonora Mitrofanova. The American Ambassador sent a substitute.