Bulgaria, Hungary and Austria should prepare the first pilot project in the Danube strategy by which to identify opportunities in the strategy for concrete action. This was proposed by Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev during a meeting with his Hungarian counterpart János Áder during the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. The two presidents agreed to encourage further steps in this direction.
Presidents Plevneliev and Áder shared the view that the European Commission should not reduce funds for the Cohesion Policy, because it is a policy for growth and regional development is supported through it. The two heads of state discussed developments in Greece and emphasised that support for our southern neighbours must be accompanied by serious reforms by the new Greek government.
The two Presidents discussed the situation of the Bulgarian minority in Hungary. According to President Plevneliev, the attitude towards the Bulgarian community there is an example of tolerance and support by local authorities. The Hungarian State supports the various initiatives and programmes of the Bulgarian minority aimed at preserving its language and national identity. Expectations that the signing of agreements on co-operation in culture and education will bring new developments in bilateral relations were further emphasized during the meeting.