Iliana Iotova meets with a delegation of the local parliament of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia
In the context of the ongoing conflicts in the vicinity of the EU and in view of the forthcoming structuring of the European institutions in the mandate of the new European Commission, the issue of citizens' security must be a priority for politicians, because it concerns not only the protection of people's lives and health, but also the guarantee of economic and social security. This is what Vice President Iliana Iotova said at a meeting with a delegation of the local parliament of Germany's federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, led by Landtag Speaker Andre Kuper. The members of the local parliament, who represent different political parties and portfolios, are visiting this country.
Iliana Iotova highlighted the excellent bilateral relations and good cooperation between Bulgaria and the Federal Republic of Germany, pointing out that among the 16 federal states North Rhine-Westphalia is the largest foreign trade partner of Bulgaria and the leading investor on the German side. More than 100,000 Bulgarian citizens live in this federal state. Iliana Iotova thanked the German side for giving our compatriots the conditions and the opportunity to study Bulgarian and preserve their traditions.
The Vice President expressed her condolences for the victims of the knife attack in Solingen, pointing out that Bulgaria strongly condemns this brutal act of violence. In Iliana Iotova's words, the tragic event is an occasion to analyse the effectiveness of the EU's policy on migration and asylum and the need for adequate management of migration flows, combating illegal trafficking in human beings, working mechanisms and procedures for asylum and relocation. As a country located at the EU's external border, Bulgaria expects the support and solidarity of the European institutions and the member states to strengthen the capacity to deal with migrant flows, Iliana Iotova said. The vice president raised the issue of Bulgaria and Romania's membership in the Schengen Area, pointing out that after the opening of the sea and air borders, fears among the member states about our accession have dissipated. Iliana Iotova expressed gratitude for Germany's support on the issue and insisted on the full admission of this country, including land borders, which will make the Union even more secure.
The Vice President noted the importance of policies concerning the energy security of Europe and its citizens in the process of transition to a green economy. When implementing ambitious green measures, it is necessary to take into account various risks and not to forget that this transformation affects millions of lives and their well-being, Iliana Iotova said. Regarding agricultural policies, the Vice President also focused on the protection of own production and the competitiveness of European farmers.
As to the conflict in Ukraine, Iliana Iotova said that Europe should play a leading role in resolving it through the negotiations for peace and reconstruction of Ukraine. In her opinion, this conflict also shows that the need for the EU's own defence policy in partnership with NATO is now urgent.