What Kristian spoke about.

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Written Statements BG

Protecting bees: advancing the EU's New Deal for Pollinators (debate)

Bees are an indispensable element of our ecosystem. Over 75% of the main crops in Europe depend directly on their pollination. Without bees, there is no food, no biodiversity, no sustainable agriculture. And yet the bees disappear. The reasons are clear: pesticides, climate change, disease, habitat loss. We have enough scientific evidence and alarming signals from beekeepers across the Union. We can no longer afford to be inactive. Immediate and decisive action is needed. The European Commission must speed up the establishment of the European Reference Laboratory for Pesticides, introduce stricter restrictions on substances harmful to pollinators and provide targeted support for sustainable agriculture that coexists with beekeeping. It is equally important to ensure real and easier access to funding for beekeepers - especially in less developed regions. They are the basis of European beekeeping, but too often fall outside the scope of the strategic instruments of the Common Agricultural Policy. This needs to change - with targeted measures, simplified procedures and better involvement of the sector in policy planning and implementation. Protecting bees means protecting our future.

21

May

2026

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Decision of the Azerbaijani Parliament on suspending cooperation with the European Parliament (debate)

Madam President, colleagues, the decision of the Azerbaijani Parliament to suspend cooperation with the European Parliament is deeply regrettable and sends a worrying political signal at a crucial moment for the South Caucasus. It comes precisely when there are important opportunities for progress in the Armenia‑Azerbaijan peace process and for greater regional stability: developments that the European Parliament has consistently supported. Parliamentary dialogue is not a reward reserved only for moments of agreement. It is most necessary precisely when disagreements are serious. The European Parliament has always believed that cooperation between parliamentary institutions provides a platform for addressing differences, defending common interests and promoting democratic values. Suspending this dialogue risks deepening mistrust and weakening channels for constructive engagement at a time when diplomacy and communication are urgently needed. During my years as a European and national parliamentarian, I have had the opportunity to cooperate closely with Azerbaijani counterparts on many occasions. As founder and first EP Co-President of the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly, and later as Vice-President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and its Special Representative for the South Caucasus, I have experienced difficult moments with them. It is often not easy to strike the right balance between constructive criticism and cooperation. However, if our actions have contributed to this decision of the Milli Majlis, we should also be willing to learn from the situation and review our approach. I know the answer I might receive to this: we are politicians here, we are not diplomats. Yet the European Parliament is a multinational parliament with a strong international role, and more diplomacy in our actions can only help us achieve our goals. At the same time, we must remain clear and principled. Throughout this parliamentary mandate, the S&D Group has consistently raised concerns regarding the rule of law and the human rights situation in Azerbaijan, including the treatment of journalists, opposition figures and human rights defenders. These concerns are legitimate and reflect the European Parliament's commitment to fundamental rights and democratic standards. Our criticism should never be interpreted as hostility towards the Azerbaijani people. On the contrary, our objective is a stable, peaceful, democratic and prosperous South Caucasus, where dialogue prevails over confrontation. The European Parliament should remain ready to re-engage with our Azerbaijani colleagues at all levels through dialogue, accountability and mutual respect as soon as they are ready too.

19

May

2026

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EU–Uzbekistan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (joint debate)

Mr President, Madam Kallas, colleagues, the EU-Uzbekistan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement is an important step in strengthening the EU's long-term engagement in Central Asia. In times of global uncertainty, stronger cooperation between the EU and the countries of Central Asia is clearly in the strategic interest of both sides. Uzbekistan is becoming an increasingly valuable partner for connectivity, energy diversification, critical raw materials and regional stability. At the same time, challenges remain regarding political pluralism, media freedom, and the protection of fundamental rights. And this is precisely why continued dialogue matters. Constructive engagement gives the EU the tools to support positive change over the long term. Uzbekistan has already demonstrated both the willingness and the capacity to reform. The agreement will create new opportunities for economic growth, social progress and poverty reduction in the country. The S&D Group supports EPCA as a solid foundation for a balanced and forward-looking partnership between the EU and Uzbekistan, and allow me to wish them success in their own language: (The speaker concluded in a non-official language)

19

May

2026

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EU cybersecurity and preparedness in view of advanced AI systems (debate)

Madam President, artificial intelligence is transforming our economies, our security environment and our democratic societies in an unprecedented speed. Europe must lead not only in innovation, but also in responsibility and resilience. The AI Act is an important step because it puts fundamental rights, transparency, human oversight and cybersecurity at the centre of advanced AI systems. But frontier AI systems can become tools for cyberattacks, disinformation and attacks against critical infrastructure. Europe, therefore, needs stronger preparedness, closer coordination between cyber security authorities, industry and researchers, and greater investment in trusted European AI capabilities and digital sovereignty. We must also strengthen cooperation with like-minded partners to improve cyber resilience and respond to AI-enabled threats. At the same time, the EU should take the lead globally in shaping international rules and principles for trustworthy and secure AI. And finally, if we are serious about enforcement, the AI office must evolve into a fully fledged European agency with the resources and expertise needed to monitor, assess, support and control the development of advanced AI systems.

18

May

2026

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One-minute speeches on matters of political importance

Mr President, environmental protection is a widely supported priority of the European Union, but good intentions do not always mean good legislation. Since the introduction of the requirement for attached caps under the Single-Use Plastics Directive, many citizens have started to signal real practical problems. Older people and people with reduced mobility have difficulty using the bottles. For many consumers, caps are inconvenient, and they often simply tear them off, which makes the measure itself meaningless. I recently asked a question on this topic and in response, the Commission defended the legislation with the argument of environmental benefits – less waste and better recycling. And he referred to old impact assessments. But the truth is that this measure has also become a symbol of excessive regulation in the eyes of many European citizens, and they are confronted with it on a daily basis. A new evaluation of the Directive is due next year and I hope that all the shortcomings and possible benefits of its implementation will then be taken into account. We've been simplifying business rules all year. We can simplify it for people at least once. In this spirit, in addition to finishing today, I thank you with Bangaranga.

18

May

2026

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European solidarity: key to securing medicine access in a shifting geopolitical era (debate)

Commissioner, colleagues, today access to medicines is no longer just a health issue. It is a matter of security, sustainability and European sovereignty. Recent crises have clearly demonstrated Europe’s vulnerability – shortages of critical medicines, dependence on suppliers outside the European Union and supply bottlenecks. No country can solve these problems on its own. Coordinated European action is needed to strengthen manufacturing capacities in the European Union, make supply chains more resilient and better prepare for future health crises. Here it is important to note the role of the future European Competitiveness Fund. The opinion of the Committee on Public Health, which we adopted just two weeks ago, places a strong emphasis on Europe's strategic autonomy in the medicines sector, supporting innovation and ensuring affordable medicines for all European citizens. As rapporteur for the Socialists and Democrats Group, I pushed for more guaranteed funds for healthcare, including medicines. But in addition to medicines, measures to provide healthcare systems with medical staff and to overcome the phenomenon of ‘health deserts’, unacceptable in modern Europe, are also on the agenda.

30

Apr

2026

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How to secure a sustainable future for the EU livestock sector in light of the need to ensure food security, farmers’ resilience and the challenges posed by animal diseases? (debate)

Madam President, livestock farming is a strategic sector for the European Union and for the livelihoods of millions of farmers. Infectious diseases remain a serious challenge. They cause serious economic and social damage. Too often resort to the seemingly easy solution - mass killing of animals. It is a past approach and a last resort with high costs for farmers, animals and society. Modern veterinary science offers alternatives - vaccines, early diagnosis, better monitoring and biosecurity. The cases of peste des petits ruminants in Bulgaria in 2018 and 2024 have clearly shown that we need a more flexible and evidence-based approach. That is why today we call on the Commission to invest more in research and innovation, promote proportionate measures and integrate disease management more clearly into future farming strategies.

25

Mar

2026

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One-minute speeches on matters of political importance

Madam President, we are under unprecedented energy pressure. Citizens and businesses expect pragmatic solutions from us. The Emissions Trading System remains a key instrument for decarbonisation and for promoting investment in clean energy. Undermining its predictability would jeopardise our long-term competitiveness and energy transition. But in the current crisis, we need to be flexible. High energy prices cannot be ignored. The European Commission must use all available instruments to alleviate pressure on households and industry through targeted support and temporary market stabilisation measures. In this context, it is also reasonable to discuss adjustments to the implementation of the ETS in the short term – ones that give more price stability without calling into question our long-term climate ambition. Such an exceptional step could be, for example, a temporary removal of coal-fired power plants from the scope of the Emissions Trading System. This will make it possible to produce cheaper energy, which in turn will have a direct effect on the whole economy.

11

Mar

2026

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EUCO and situation in the Middle East (joint debate)

21

Jan

2026

Speeches EN

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Preparations for the EU-India summit (debate)

Madam President, Madam High Representative, colleagues, the next EU-India summit is an important opportunity to strengthen a partnership that matters for Europe's economic future. India is not only one of the world's fastest growing economies, it is also a partner with whom Europe can shape a more resilient, innovative and competitive global economy. A well-designed trade agreement can help diversify supply chains, reduce dependencies and strengthen Europe's industrial base. But above all, it must deliver real economic value, especially for sectors that create quality jobs. Artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, medicines and life sciences are clear priorities. Europe and India have complementary strengths in research skills and innovation. Closer cooperation can boost productivity and ensure that technological progress translates into social progress as well. Finally, as strategic partners for more than 20 years, EU and India share the responsibility to support peace, stability and the rules-based international order grounded in dialogue and multilateral cooperation.

19

Jan

2026

Speeches BG

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Framework for strengthening the availability and security of supply of critical medicinal products as well as the availability of, and accessibility of, medicinal products of common interest (debate)

16

Dec

2025

Speeches BG

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Presentation of the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan (debate)

Madam President, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the European Union and affect millions of European citizens every year. I therefore welcome the development of a European plan for cardiovascular health, based on clear objectives and concrete measures. First of all, the plan must put a strong focus on prevention. This means investment in early diagnosis programmes, systematic screening, as well as pan-European initiatives to reduce risk factors - smoking, unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity and air pollution. Prevention is not only more effective than treatment, but also significantly more sustainable in the long run. It is particularly important that these initiatives reach vulnerable groups and regions with the worst health indicators. In Bulgaria, where cardiovascular mortality remains alarmingly high, targeted screening, health education and primary care support programmes are needed, including in smaller settlements. Expectations for this plan must be realistic, it will not replace national health policies, but it can create a framework for coordination, funding and measurable results.

25

Nov

2025

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Digital Package (debate)

Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, today's debate is about proposals for changes that affect the very foundations of European digital legislation. Under the pretext of ‘simplification’, steps are proposed that will reduce the protection of personal data, confidentiality of communications and citizens’ rights directly protected by the Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. This is not a technical correction. This is a weakening of standards that build people's trust and the stability that businesses rely on. If we blur the definitions and allow for a wider use of personal data without clear safeguards, we risk not just a lower level of protection – we risk legal fragmentation. And one more important thing: weakening protection undermines all legislation – the Artificial Intelligence Act, the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act – all based on rules and definitions laid down in the General Data Protection Regulation. Our message should be clear: data protection and confidentiality are not an obstacle, but a condition for innovation, trust and competitiveness.

13

Nov

2025

Speeches BG

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Framework for achieving climate neutrality (A10-0223/2025 - Ondřej Knotek)

Madam President, today we voted on the new climate law, a key instrument for the future of Europe and Bulgaria. It is not just a normative act, it is a decision whether we will live in a cleaner, more secure environment and whether we will have a more competitive economy. For Bulgaria, the stakes are particularly high. Our households and businesses are already feeling the pressure of the energy transformation, so we must also clearly identify the problems associated with ITS2, the new emissions trading system for transport and buildings. It can lead to higher fuel and heating prices, and at this stage there are insufficient protections for vulnerable citizens and small businesses. That is why I supported postponing ITS2 for the time being to 2028. I supported the updated interim target of reducing emissions by 2040, because it gives the necessary predictability to plan investments in Europe and Bulgaria, without which neither industry nor the energy sector can make long-term decisions. At the same time, we must ensure that the green transition is fair, that citizens are not left to pay the price themselves, and that climate neutrality efforts go hand in hand with support, investment and solidarity.

13

Nov

2025

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European Maritime Safety Agency (A10-0217/2025 - Sérgio Humberto)

Madam President, dear colleagues, today we approved the updated regulation for EMSA, the European Maritime Safety Agency – a vital step forward for maritime safety, decarbonisation and sustainable governance. By supporting this regulation, I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring that our maritime sector adapts to the new geopolitical realities, strengthens environmental standards, and deploys modern training and governance frameworks. For our country, this regulation matters because our shipping, port infrastructure and maritime services must align with the highest European standards to remain competitive and resilient. The renewed EMSA mandate gives us stronger oversight and support so that tragedies at sea, environmental incidents and safety risks are better prevented, and our businesses operate on a level playing field. At the same time, I emphasise the need for EU policy to reflect fairness and proportionality, ensuring that smaller maritime nations and regional ports are not overburdened, that technical assistance and funding are accessible, and that training and capacity-building do reach all actors.

23

Oct

2025

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Discontinuing seasonal time change (debate)

Mr President, Commissioner, it is time to stop turning the arrows back and forth twice a year. Summer time was introduced with the idea of energy efficiency, but today all evidence suggests that there are no such benefits. Meta-analyses and studies from around the world confirm that the effect on energy consumption is zero, and the negatives are real. People suffer from disturbed sleep, decreased concentration and health risks, without society earning anything. I'm not saying anything new. This discussion has been going on for 7 years now. The European Commission has long proposed ending seasonal time changes with overwhelming support from European citizens. And here comes the logical question: How will we convince Europeans that we are capable of solving the big questions of peace and war, of global security and climate change, when we cannot even agree on something so simple? I fully support the initiative of the Spanish Government to put an end to the time change. Let the European Union show that it can act decisively, and let citizens turn to their governments, on which the final decision depends.

22

Oct

2025

Speeches BG

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The ongoing assault on the democratic institutions and the rule of law in Bulgaria (topical debate)

Madam President, Commissioner, on behalf of the Group of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament, I declare that democracy, fundamental rights, the rule of law are the foundation of the European Union and any attack on them in any Member State is an attack on the whole Union. But also the political abuse of these issues undermines citizens' trust and is counterproductive. Over the years, the European Union has developed mechanisms to monitor a country's ability to maintain the highest standards. I will mention the European Commission's annual reports on the rule of law, the introduction of conditionality in the allocation of funds from the European budget, the establishment of the European Prosecutor's Institute. The European Parliament has a specialised committee where these issues can be discussed – the Committee on Civil Rights, Justice and Home Affairs and its monitoring group on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. Today, however, Renew, misled by its members from Bulgaria, hysterizes the problems that the country has been facing not since yesterday: a weakened and insufficiently effective judicial system, a number of important out-of-office judicial bodies, ambiguity around the anti-corruption commission – all this is the result of political instability and chaotic reforms in recent years. And what are you offering us today? Propaganda debate in the European Parliament, suspension of funds for Bulgaria, European political interference in the work of the Bulgarian court. The man who, as prime minister, ordered the arrest of the opposition leader is complaining today about an investigation by a mayor conducted in accordance with the legal order. The leaders of two parties with which the liberals ruled together only a year ago are being demonized. Together they inflicted a pogrom on the Bulgarian constitution, which further created uncertainty in the judicial system. I'll stop there, I just want to make it clear that there are no innocents. The solution is not in political campaigns against Bulgaria and debates in Strasbourg, but in systematic and constructive work between the government and the opposition in Sofia. For our part, we will support the conduct of a well-prepared mission of the said monitoring group in Bulgaria and we will rely on it to make the most accurate assessment of the situation and to give recommendations.

21

Oct

2025

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Institutional consequences of the EU enlargement negotiations (debate)

Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, this report reminds us that Europe has both the responsibility and the capacity to continue its enlargement with those partners who have already met the criteria. Enlargement and institutional reform must advance together – not as competing goals, but as mutually reinforcing processes. The prospect of EU membership remains one of the strongest engines for transformation, stability and reconciliation across our continent. Completing the Union towards the south-eastern and eastern edges is therefore not only a matter of geography, but of fulfilling the European project's promise of unity and stability. Our Union's institutions are already capable of welcoming the enlargement frontrunners, provided we continue to strengthen their efficiency, transparency and legitimacy. The ongoing reflection on institutional reform is not a precondition to enlargement, but a necessary preparation, ensuring that, when new members join, our decision-making remains effective and our values intact. Europe's strength lies in its ability to adapt without hesitation and expand without division. Let us therefore move forward with confidence.

9

Oct

2025

Speeches BG

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World Mental Health Day - addressing the socio-economic factors (debate)

Mr President, today we celebrate World Mental Health Day, a day in which we remember that there is no health without mental health. Increasingly, we realize that mental well-being depends not only on our personal strength or attitude, but also on the conditions in which we live. Socio-economic factors such as poverty, unemployment, low income, social isolation and inequality have a profound impact on the human psyche. When a person lives in constant stress, without a stable income or a secure environment, anxiety and depression become not just a personal, but a social problem. Therefore, the fight for mental health must also be a fight for social justice. More investment is needed in education, affordable healthcare and support programmes for vulnerable groups. We need to talk openly about mental health, without shame and stigma, and create a society in which help is close to every person, regardless of their social status. The European Mental Health Strategy adopted in 2023, which focuses on prevention, access to care and combating stigma, is a good start, but concrete measures are also needed. Today, let's take a step forward to a world where mental health is a right, not a privilege. A world where care, understanding and solidarity are at the core of human dignity.

7

Oct

2025

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New Strategic EU-India Agenda (debate)

Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, today we discuss the partnership between the two largest democratic unions in the world – that's the European Union and the Indian Union. Our relationship has been forged over the years, yielding remarkable achievements in trade, investment, scientific collaboration and cultural exchange. Now, in a rapidly changing world, it is imperative that the European Union and India deepen their cooperation in critical areas that will shape the future. Our commitment to peace, respect for international law, multilateralism and a rules-based international order must be unwavering. Together, we can champion diplomacy, foster stability, and uphold the principles that have long ensured global security and prosperity. Climate change remains an existential threat. Our partnership in clean energy, sustainable development and environmental protection is crucial for securing a liveable planet for future generations. Artificial intelligence presents both tremendous opportunities and significant risks. By aligning our approaches to regulate it, the EU and India can ensure AI development is ethical, transparent and respects fundamental rights. As digital technologies underpin every aspect of our societies, we also must work together to build resilient digital infrastructures and establish common standards to protect privacy and security. (The speaker concluded in a non-EU language)

8

Jul

2025

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2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia (debate)

Madam President, I only have a minute to say three things: Citizens of North Macedonia: Bulgaria wants your country to be a member of the European Union. Whatever they say to you, in the face of Bulgarians and Bulgarian MEPs, you have friends. To the rulers of Skopje: stop creating a parallel reality in your country, looking for excuses and excuses. You have gone so far as to accuse the European Union of not being democratic. Invest efforts in our common European future instead of creating contradictions about our common past. The facts of the past cannot be erased, but we can create together the facts of our European future. Change the Constitution, respect the rights of Bulgarians, accept them on an equal footing with the representatives of other peoples and give a chance to good-neighborliness. To my colleagues here: the report we are discussing today has created a lot of tensions and conflicts. In the end, no one will remember what it says, only the comments and scandals will remain. Therefore, in the future, it should be approached more carefully, more transparently and the European Parliament should not open issues that it cannot solve. Finally, human rights are always at stake and cannot be traded politically on any account. Courage, Mr. Georgievski!

19

Jun

2025

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Institutional and political implications of the EU enlargement process and global challenges (debate)

Commissioner, enlargement is not only a historic commitment, but also a strategic priority. It is an investment in the security, stability and prosperity of the entire continent. However, the enlargement of the Union also presents us with a number of institutional challenges: more complex decision-making mechanisms, the need to adapt the budget and strengthen democratic legitimacy. In this context, the abolition of the unanimity principle is often proposed as a one-size-fits-all solution. But let us be honest, this will not remedy the most significant problem – the lack of sufficient trust between Member States. The Treaties already offer a number of instruments, such as enhanced cooperation, constructive abstention, which we can use. They make it possible to move to a decision by qualified majority on any matter, provided that this is decided by unanimity. Treaty change is a complex and slow process without guarantees of the end result. We must therefore make the most of the current legal framework, otherwise we risk weakening the European Union and blocking the enlargement process indefinitely. As a representative of Bulgaria, one of the last countries to join, I would like to emphasise clearly: The responsibility in this case is two-fold. Candidates also need to do their job and make the necessary changes to apply European standards in every area. Only in this way will the process retain the support of citizens, which is most important, both in the candidate countries and in the Member States, in order to achieve together a democratic, solidarity-based and good future for every European.

17

Jun

2025

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2023 and 2024 reports on Moldova (debate)

Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, the Republic of Moldova is an example of consistent progress on the path to membership of the European Union. Only two years after submitting its application, the country has not only been granted candidate status, but has also started accession negotiations. This is an expression of real political will, despite serious domestic and foreign policy challenges. Last year's referendum made it clear that European integration for Moldova is not just a geopolitical choice, but a value choice. The European Union remains committed and will continue to assist Moldova, but success depends first and foremost on Moldova itself. The pace of implementation of the commitments made must be maintained and the greatest challenges in the long term remain the rule of law, the fight against corruption and a lasting solution to the Transnistrian conflict. I would like to congratulate the authorities in the country who helped this year in Taraclia to open a branch of the Bulgarian University of Ruse. This is a strategic contribution to European integration through education. I count on the support for the Bulgarian community in Moldova to be maintained in other aspects of the state policy. Bulgaria is and will remain a reliable partner for Moldova's European and democratic future. I thank the rapporteur for the excellent report and call for his support.

7

May

2025

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Democratic legitimacy and the Commission’s continued authorisation of genetically modified organisms despite Parliament’s objections (debate)

Madam President, Commissioner, I reiterate our deep concern regarding the Commission's continued authorisation of genetically modified organisms in direct defiance of this Parliament's repeated objections. The European Parliament has rejected nearly 50 GMO authorisations, raising concerns about biodiversity, food safety and environmental sustainability. Yet despite this consistent opposition, the Commission continues with approvals, often without a qualified majority and against the will of both Parliament and a divided Council. The risks posed by GMOs are not hypothetical. They are rooted in legitimate scientific uncertainty and long-term concerns about the loss of biodiversity through monocultures, potential harm to pollinators, dependency on herbicides, and resistant crops. These authorisations mainly serve the commercial interests of large, primarily US-based companies, rather than European farmers and consumers. We believe in a sustainable agricultural future rooted in science, responsibility and democratic legitimacy. Therefore, our opposition to GMOs will remain.

6

May

2025

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2023 and 2024 reports on Serbia (debate)

Mr President, dear colleagues, Serbia remains a key partner and an essential part of our shared European future in the European Union. Its path to membership must remain open but strictly conditional on real progress in democracy, the rule of law, the fight against corruption, media freedom and the protection of minorities. As the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports underline, progress has been made, yet serious shortcomings persist. Most telling, I believe, are the massive protests led by Serbian students recently, sparked by the canopy collapse of the Novi Sad train station that tragically claimed 16 lives. They were not just about the victims; they expose the deeper public frustration with unaccountable governance, misuse of public funds and the erosion of democratic norms. These protests are not a threat to stability, they are a call for it – a call for normalisation and democratic accountability. There is no need for a fundamental change in the EU's approach towards the country, although we must remain clear about the values we defend. Our assessment should take into account the complex geopolitical position of Serbia. Respectful but firm communication is a better option than disengagement, and this is what those hundreds of thousands of peaceful protesters expect from us.