Bulgarian PM Borissov held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron

The coronavirus has changed our lives and completely rearranged the EU agenda. Protecting the lives of the people is currently a top priority. In these times of crisis, it is of the utmost importance that we take advantage of all the tools at our disposal within the EU to succeed in the battle against COVID-19, " Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said in a telephone conversation he had with French President Emmanuel Macron on April 30. The two leaders discussed current data on the prevalence of coronavirus and measures that have proven effective in curbing the spread of the disease.

"Dealing with such unprecedented challenge at EU level is impossible without a coordinated approach of joint measures to mitigate the social and economic effects of the crisis," PM Borissov said. He was adamant that today, more than ever, unity and upholding the principle of European solidarity are needed in the name of restoring the normal way of life of EU citizens.

The Bulgarian Prime Minister noted that even in the time of the extraordinary measures of the member-states, Bulgaria remains committed to upholding the rule of law, the principles of democracy and human rights.

Prime Minister Boyko Borissov also said that our country will participate in the International Virtual Donor Conference on May 4, organized at the initiative of the President of the European Commission, whose purpose is to provide funding for the fight against the pandemic. In this context, Bulgaria is considering a financial commitment.

Prime Minister Borissov briefed French President Macron on the actions of the government and industry to reorganize the Bulgarian economy in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Prime Minister pointed out that since March the textile industry in Bulgaria has been producing protective clothing, helmets and goggles for the needs of the Bulgarian doctors, nurses, paramedics, laboratory assistants and for all employees directly involved in the fight against the coronavirus.

Such samples of protective clothing and masks have already been sent to Paris and our country is ready to assist with quantities.

President Macron welcomed the timely measures imposed by the Bulgarian government against COVID-19, as well as the reorganization achieved in the industry. Prime Minister Borissov wished the success of the scientists from the Montpellier Institute, who started a clinical study with a specific drug, whether it can be applied effectively in patients with COVID-19.

“If we join forces in this area, we will be able to get results faster," Prime Minister Borissov told Macron.

During the telephone conversation, Borissov expressed his gratitude that in 2018 during the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU, President Macron supported the idea that Bulgaria should move towards the Eurozone waiting room.

"We are counting on your support for ERM II today, after formally submitting documents to the ECB," the Prime Minister said.

Another highlight of the conversation was the excellent bilateral relations, based on mutual trust and understanding.

"France is a strategic partner and ally of Bulgaria. We continue to develop active dialogue and cooperation in all areas of mutual interest bilaterally, as well as within the EU and NATO," said Prime Minister Borissov.

Last year marked 140 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and France.