Bulgaria Seeks Investment Boost Through Eurozone Membership

Bulgaria's Prime Minister Rumen Radev has emphasized the importance of using Eurozone membership to attract investment and strengthen competitiveness. Speaking at a conference organized by the Ministry of Finance and the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), Radev said that Bulgaria must leverage its ESM membership to build a more resilient economy.

Radev highlighted the significance of Bulgaria's accession to the ESM, which he described as a 'significant milestone' for the country. He acknowledged that the process has come at a cost to Bulgarian citizens but stressed that it demonstrates the resilience of the Bulgarian economy and its institutions.

The prime minister emphasized the need for sustainable public finances and continued economic system improvement. Radev said that Bulgaria's membership in the ESM brings a sense of stability, which is essential for any economy. However, he also noted that this membership comes with responsibilities, including maintaining fiscal discipline and improving the economic system.

Radev outlined several key areas where Bulgaria needs to improve, including transforming its economic development model from one centered on consumption and redistribution to one based on high growth, productivity, competitiveness, advanced technologies, investment in key industries, and stronger exports. He also highlighted the importance of digital connectivity and transport infrastructure in driving economic growth.

The prime minister mentioned that Bulgaria's geographical position as a link between Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East is an advantage, particularly for energy trade. Radev said that Bulgaria aims to become an energy hub for Southeast Europe, citing gas interconnections, nuclear energy, and the presence of a major regional refinery.

Finance Minister Galab Donev also spoke at the conference, emphasizing the importance of foreign investors' confidence in Bulgaria's economy and fiscal stability. He noted that foreign investment during the first half of 2026 had nearly doubled compared to the previous year, with about half of this increase coming from reinvested profits by foreign investors already operating in Bulgaria.