MEPs assess the results of the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU

Prime Minister Boyko Borissov presented the work done under the first Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU to MEPs and Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.

The first Bulgarian Presidency of the Council focused on progress made in offering an EU perspective to the Western Balkan countries, the future of Europe and young people, the Digital Economy, as well as security and stability.

Bulgarian PM Boyko Borissov also mentioned the progress achieved in the areas of security and defense, migration, notably on the common European asylum system and the European travel information and authorisation system (ETIAS). He concluded his speech with a promise that Bulgaria will continue to work towards being directly involved in all European policies, namely Schengen and the Eurozone and continue its efforts to fight corruption and boost environmental protection.

Bulgaria took over the rotating Council Presidency from Estonia on 1 January.

Video recordings of statements by Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, Commission President Jean-Claude Junker and MEPs speaking on behalf of political groups are available below.

Click on the name of the speaker to replay statements.

Boyko Borissov, Prime Minister of Bulgaria, opening statement

Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, opening statement

Manfred Weber (EPP, DE)

Eric Andrieu (S&D, FR)

Angel DZHAMBAZKI (ECR, BG)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK (ALDE, BG)

Ska Keller (Greens/EFA, DE)

Zoltán Balczó (NI, HU)

Mariya Gabriel (European Commission)

Boyko Borissov, Prime Minister of Bulgaria, closing statement