Kristian Vigenin: EU door remains open to Ukraine
26 November 2013 News
Ukraine is not saying a final "no" to the European Union, our door remains open to it. Speaking on TV7 this morning, Foreign Minister Kristian Vigenin noted that Ukraine is in a difficult situation. In his words, the trade hardships with Russia have serious influence on the country and the EU has failed to compensate it in time for these losses. According to him, the decision not to sign the agreement with the EU is not of a crucial significance for the Union at this stage. He explained that recognizing the strategic importance of Ukraine’s association, most of the representatives of the countries of Central and Eastern Europe have insisted on a more flexible approach, but this was not taken into consideration.
Without Ukraine the idea of Eurasian Union cannot be implemented, said Vigenin. The Foreign Minister stated that the Eastern Partnership initiative is not intended to confront with Russia in these countries, but to create opportunities for stability and economic development. He expressed hope henceforth the EU to be more active in its contacts with Russia.
With regard to the energy projects, Kristian Vigenin noted that NPP "Belene" is a project that should have a very accurate assessment of the effectiveness and only then it can possibly be restarted. The Minister was explicit that there should be no problems on the regulatory framework with the European Union and all the feasible actions on the project will comply with the European rules, as well as with the Bulgarian national interest. Vigenin emphasized that our country is actively working on diversifying the gas routes and sources.
Regarding the refugee wave, the Foreign Minister emphasized that contacts with Turkey have been taken to the highest political level. According to him, the country has no interest in creating the impression that it intentionally directs immigrants to the EU. By the end of the year there will be a meeting of the Central Joint Bulgarian-Turkish Border Commission, which will discuss the issues of joint monitoring of the border. Kristian Vigenin noted that our EU partners have considered the seriousness of the situation and the risks faced by Bulgaria regarding the refugee wave, and we have already received assistance from the EU countries to cope with this situation.
With regard to the forthcoming European Parliament elections, Kristian Vigenin emphasized that the pro-European voters are voting less compared to the supporters of the Nationalists. It is therefore necessary for the responsible political parties to motivate their voters. According to him, the MFA of the Republic of Bulgaria will conduct an information campaign for the elections.
As regards the opening of the UK labor market after 1 January 2014, Minister Vigenin said that he does not expect an influx of Bulgarian citizens. In his words, the ongoing campaign there is unsubstantiated.