Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for the Environment, Water Sustainability, and a Competitive Circular Economy, and Rositsa Karamfilova, Minister of the Environment and Water of Bulgaria, held a bilateral meeting at the Ministry of the Environment and Water, after which they presented the main priorities of their joint work to the media.

Minister Karamfilova reported that the discussion focused on topics such as the sustainable management of natural resources, the circular economy, improving the business environment, and the need to find balanced solutions that simultaneously ensure high environmental standards and enhance the competitiveness of the European economy.

“Today’s discussion has given me confidence that we have a partner in the European Commission – a partner we can rely on to ensure that our ideas, vision, and national specificities are openly brought to the table and discussed as we seek balanced solutions. Only when every country’s voice is heard and national circumstances are taken into account can we achieve solutions that simultaneously protect the environment and strengthen Europe’s competitiveness,” she said.

Special attention was paid during the meeting to waste management and the implementation of the circular economy principles. “We discussed the need to view waste not as a problem, but as a strategic resource . It is precisely here that we see significant potential for the development of the circular economy,” said Minister Karamfilova.

During the conversation, they also discussed future European initiatives aimed at reducing the administrative burden, improving business conditions, and promoting sustainable investments, as well as the preparation of national strategic documents related to nature restoration and conservation.

In her remarks, Commissioner Jessika Roswall expressed satisfaction with the bilateral discussion held during her first official visit to Bulgaria. She emphasized that environmental sustainability is directly linked to Europe’s economic development and security. “Environmental sustainability is not an isolated goal. It is essential for Europe’s long-term economic prosperity and security. Addressing challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and biodiversity loss is important for citizens, businesses, and sustainable growth alike,” stated Commissioner Roswall.

According to her, reliable access to resources, modern infrastructure, healthy ecosystems, and the efficient use of resources are becoming increasingly important strategic assets for European economies. “Investments in these areas will reduce vulnerabilities, strengthen our preparedness for future challenges, and create new opportunities for innovation and competitiveness,” she emphasized.

The European Commissioner welcomed Bulgaria’s commitment to environmental priorities and the country’s willingness to work closely with the European Commission to effectively implement European legislation and take advantage of opportunities for European funding and technical support. She assured that the European Commission will continue to support Bulgaria’s efforts to enhance sustainability, economic development, and the quality of life for its citizens.

“Our common goal is clear - to build a more sustainable Europe that is better prepared for future challenges, protects its natural resources, and at the same time strengthens its competitiveness in an increasingly uncertain world,” Commissioner Jessika Roswall said in conclusion.

Earlier in the day, Commissioner Roswall and Minister Karamfilova participated in a high-level session of the “Green Transition Forum” in Sofia on the topic “Circular Economy, Climate Action, and Water Sustainability - A Driving Force for Europe’s Competitive Transition.”