The need for reforms in the European migration policy, as well as for more solidarity with the countries that form the EU's external borders and are directly exposed to migration pressure, were discussed by President Radev in a videoconference with European Council President Charles Michel. The session took place in the run-up to the special European Council meeting scheduled for 9 and 10 February where the Bulgarian head of State will represent this country.
The adverse effects for European security resulting from Russian Federation's war against Ukraine were highlighted, as well as the impact of the military conflict on the economies of EU member states.
The stated ambition of the Republic of North Macedonia to join the EU against the backdrop of the escalating anti-Bulgarian campaign in the country, which had led to hate crimes such as arson attacks, shootings on Bulgarian cultural clubs and physical assaults on Macedonian Bulgarians and Bulgarian citizens, was also among the positions expressed by President Radev.