Pekanov: Bulgaria lacks resources for new aid to Ukraine; focus is on diplomacy and reforms

Bulgaria does not have the financial capacity to provide new aid to Ukraine during the current year, stated Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Pekanov. According to him, available resources for military support are already exhausted, and the budget deficit does not allow for additional expenditures in this sector.

In an interview for the program "The Day Begins with Georgi Lyubenov," Pekanov emphasized that the government's position is aimed at seeking a diplomatic solution to the conflict. He added that the approach of European leaders so far has not led to the desired results, and he advocates for a balanced approach, which President Rumen Radev also shares.

Regarding European sanctions, the Deputy Prime Minister defended Bulgaria's right to argue its case within the EU. He cited arguments against sanctions on the Patriarch as an example, noting that they could only increase religious tension without affecting the course of the war.

Economic challenges and the Euro
Pekanov also commented on concerns regarding prices following the introduction of the euro. In his opinion, part of the business community, especially in tourism, has made mistakes in pricing by attempting to align costs with those in Western Europe, which could repel tourists.

At the same time, he categorically rejected the possibility of a new VAT reduction for the restaurant industry, stating that the focus should be on administrative reform and better revenue collection.

Urgent deadlines for the Recovery Plan
One of the most critical moments facing the government is the completion of projects under the Recovery and Resilience Plan. Pekanov warned that there are only 45 days left until the deadline (August 31), and any failure to comply risks costing the country around 437 million euros.

"There is full mobilization in all ministries. Whatever is not completed by the end of August cannot be funded," he warned, calling on contractors to work at maximum speed.

The future of the economy
The Deputy Prime Minister predicted a change in the future budget, which will include the optimization of the state apparatus, the closing of unnecessary agencies, and the brightening of the economy. He pointed out that Bulgaria's long-term potential lies in high-tech sectors such as artificial intelligence, the space sector, and the defense industry.