On August 2, 2024, the traditional public discussion on the start of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union took place. The event was organized for the 15th consecutive year by Pan-Europa Bulgaria in partnership with the Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute, the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria, and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Bulgaria. The forum brought together diplomats, representatives of institutions, experts, and the media for an open debate on European priorities in the second half of 2025.
The event was opened by Ms. Gergana Passy, President of Pan-Europa Bulgaria, who emphasized the importance of consistent dialogue between European institutions and civil society, especially in the context of the new challenges facing the EU. Greetings were also given by Mr. Norbert Beckmann-Dirkes, Head of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation Office in Sofia, and Ms. Tanya Mihaylova, Director of the Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute.
Minister Petko Nikolov, acting Minister of Economy and Industry of Bulgaria, presented an economic analysis of the delay in Bulgaria’s full membership in the Schengen area. He pointed out that the country loses over BGN 1.3 billion annually, of which BGN 845 million are direct losses, according to a report by the Institute for Economic Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. Minister Nikolov expressed hope that progress would be made on the issue of removing land border controls during the Hungarian Presidency.
H.E. Miklós Boros, Ambassador of Hungary to Bulgaria, outlined the main priorities of the Presidency under the motto “Make Europe Great Again.” Among the leading topics were: Increasing the competitiveness of the EU; Reforming and strengthening European cohesion policy; Reducing illegal migration and overcoming demographic challenges; Protecting farmers through a more effective agricultural policy; Supporting the EU’s enlargement policy; Strengthening European defense policy; Restoring institutional balance in the EU.
Ambassador Boros emphasized Budapest’s desire for realistic and pragmatic solutions aimed at achieving compromise on key issues in the interest of all European citizens.
The event was covered by leading national media and provided an opportunity for representatives of various sectors to exchange views on the future of the EU. The discussion confirmed the role of Pan-Europa Bulgaria as an active mediator in the process of European dialogue and a contributor of ideas aimed at integration, economic growth, and security.