Bulgaria has been assessed on its merits for meeting the Maastricht convergence criteria, which shows the similarity of the Bulgarian economy with the European Union's requirements for sustainability and stability, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said at a press conference at the Council of Ministers after a meeting with European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Valdis Dombrovskis, BTA reported.

The decision to lift the derogation, which has existed since the entry into force of the Treaty of Bulgaria’s Accession to the EU, is expected in July, so that we can introduce the euro on January 1, 2026, the Prime Minister also said. According to him, this does not mean that Bulgaria is abandoning its national currency. "On the contrary - it is joining the common European currency, but above all the Bulgarian economy and Bulgarian finances are sustainable and are approaching the European criteria for stability and sustainability as much as possible."

Valdis Dombrovskis said that this country meets the four important conditions for joining the eurozone, BGNES has reported. “Joining the eurozone requires a lot of effort and compliance with rules, as well as commitment from the authorities,” he added.

According to the European Commissioner, Bulgaria’s economic growth has doubled since joining the EU and this shows the benefits of convergence and membership. “Bulgaria and the people should be proud of this achievement, but development should not stop. The euro will provide practical benefits for Bulgarian citizens and companies – we are already seeing the transformative impact on the country, as there are many positive signals for investors,” Valdis Dombrovskis added.

• Rosen Zhelyazkov: Joining the Eurozone will bring long-term benefits

• EP, ECB convergence reports greenlight Bulgaria's entry into the eurozone

Editor: Diana Tsankova

Publication in English: Al. Markov

Photo: BTA