Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and Vice-President of the European Commission Frans Timmermans discussed, at a meeting in Sofia, the European perspective of the countries of the Western Balkans.

The two agreed that stability in the region is crucial to the whole of Europe and that is why it is important that these countries be given a clear path towards European accession. Borissov also laid emphasis on importance of the connectivity of the Western Balkans countries for their economic and cultural development and their bond to Europe. He pointed out that now that Bulgaria has taken over the Presidency of the Council of the EU, it will endeavour to seek accord on all issues from the European agenda and will work towards the unity of the EU. Borissov added that he would make all necessary efforts so that the Istanbul Convention may be ratified by Bulgarian parliament. 

Later, during a working lunch with Bulgarian Justice Minister Tsetska Tshacheva, Frans Timmermans has pointed to the support for the Bulgarian government's efforts for the ratification of the Istanbul Convention. The two officials have agreed on the need to enforce the convention.