The Minister of Environment and Water Rositsa Karamfilova met with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to Bulgaria, Her Excellency Katarina Rangnitt.

Minister Karamfilova emphasized the key role of Sweden as President of the Council of the EU in a situation of uncertainty and high inflation throughout the EU. An even stronger emphasis needs to be placed on the significant investment required to ensure compliance with the new requirements.

The progress with the talks on the current legislative proposals in the field of environment and climate in the Council of the EU was discussed. Minister Karamfilova confirmed the readiness of Bulgaria to continue to participate actively and constructively in the negotiation process.

During the meeting, the initiative by the Swedish Presidency was also discussed to bring policy-makers and the business together in the fringes of the upcoming informal meeting of ministers in April in Stockholm.

“This is a guarantee not only for a fruitful discussion, whereby conclusions can be drawn for future environmental policies, but also for an exchange of experience and successful business practices. Strengthening cooperation with the business on environmental and climate issues is of key importance both for accelerating the environmental transition and for increasing the competitiveness of the EU”, highlighted Minister Karamfilova.

Karamfilova noted Bulgaria’s ambition to host the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in 2024.

In conclusion, Minister Karamfilova and Ambassador Rangnitt agreed that in respect to environmental issues, both countries are moving in the same direction. The willingness was confirmed to continue the joint work and good cooperation between the two countries.