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Remarks by President António Costa at the joint press conference with Prime Minister of Bulgaria Rossen Jeliazkov

European Council / Council of the European Union

European Council
Statements and remarks
28 April 2025 16:30

Allow me to start by thanking you for your warm hospitality in Bulgaria, especially here in this university.

During my visit, I have had the opportunity to hold very constructive discussions with Prime Minister Jeliazkov. In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to join forces.

This is why I found it very important not to visit only the capital, Sofia, but also to visit different regions in the country. To listen to the citizens, the companies and the local communities to help us shape better policies and to foster innovation and competitiveness. Making sure that there are opportunities for every country, for every region. And working together at local, regional, national and European level, so that no region and no citizen is left behind.

As regards defence and competitiveness, those two main priorities go hand in hand. Investments in defence not only strengthen our security — they also create jobs, spread innovation, drive regional development and support strong local communities. We have seen it today during our visit to the Arsenal factory.

The Arsenal factory is a very good example of the link between defence and competitiveness and, in particular, how the Bulgarian defence industry, with its unique historical and regional know-how, is contributing to Europe's support for Ukraine.

Here at Trakia University, I have had the opportunity to see how innovation could change traditional sectors like fisheries or agriculture. It has been very inspiring and stimulating to see how Bulgaria is diversifying its economy, making it more innovative and sustainable. The basis for a more competitive economy of the future is knowledge. And that is why education and research are so important for our common future.

Tomorrow we will visit the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology, a pioneering research institute in the AI sector. This institute will be one of the six AI factories in Europe.

All these examples demonstrate the dynamism of the Bulgarian economy and society, and Bulgaria's contribution to a more prosperous, more secure and more cohesive European Union.

Once again, I would like to thank Prime Minister Jeliazkov and my hosts in Kazanlak, in Stara Zagora, and here at this university, for their warm welcome.