The Minister of Environment and Water Julian Popov is in Brussels to participate in a meeting of the European Union Council on Environment.

During his visit, Minister Popov held a working meeting with the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Teresa Ribera, who is responsible for a clean, just and competitive transition. The two discussed key issues on the European agenda, including the decarbonization of the economy as a factor for strategic autonomy, increasing competitiveness, and ensuring a socially fair transition. Emphasis was also placed on the implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the new Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS2), which covers the building stock and transport.

During the Council meeting, the ministers discussed the proposal for amending the regulation on CO₂ emission standards for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. Bulgaria supported an ambitious but flexible framework that promotes electrification, innovation and technological neutrality, that takes into account the role of alternative fuels and ensures an economically sustainable transition, as well as the competitiveness of the EU.

An exchange of views was also held on the post-2030 decarbonisation framework in the context of the target of a 90% reduction in emissions by 2040 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. Minister Popov highlighted that global competition is determined by the pace of electrification and the development of decarbonisation technologies. The EU lags behind China (32% share of electricity in final consumption compared to 22–23% in the EU and 27% for Bulgaria). Julian Popov emphasized the need to overcome market fragmentation and have a stronger investment focus. The Minister underlined the role of the carbon market as a driver for competitiveness and stressed the importance of the European Emissions Trading Scheme as a key source of revenue, which should be used more effectively and purposefully, including through the CBAM and the Social Climate Fund. The exchange of views between the ministers focused on strengthening investment in research and innovation, with a priority on batteries, power grids, renewable energy sources and electrification, as well as on better taking into account the role of carbon sinks.

The meeting continued with discussions on strengthening the European Union's strategic cooperation in global environmental diplomacy and approving conclusions on the EU Strategic Framework for a Competitive and Sustainable Bioeconomy.

Minister Popov also met with the European Commissioner for Climate Action, Net Zero Emissions and Clean Growth Wopke Hoekstra.