President Radev: A long-term strategy is needed to take into account the preservation of jobs in the coal energy sector

Increasing the competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy depends on the use of scientific, educational and human potential of our country. In this regard, Bulgaria also relies on the international expertise and technical support of the World Bank. This was stated by President Rumen Radev during his first meeting with Fabrizio Zarcone - World Bank Resident Representative for Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, Europe and Central Asia. The conversation took place on Dondukov 2.

Rumen Radev and Fabrizio Zarcone discussed the need for new educational policies, including increasing students 'skills in line with modern economic requirements, as well as improving teachers' qualifications. The mechanisms for reducing extreme poverty and strengthening equality were also discussed.

The meeting also discussed the opportunities and challenges facing Bulgaria related to the transformation of the energy sector and the so-called Green deal of the European Commission. A clear and long-term strategy is needed that takes into account the preservation of jobs in the coal energy sector, as well as the country's energy independence, the president said. Rumen Radev and Fabrizio Zarcone were unanimous that the social aspects of the energy transition must be carefully taken into account. The President pointed out the potential of Bulgaria for the use of geothermal and river waters as a promising and ecological method for electricity production.

During the meeting, the President and the Permanent Representative of the World Bank in Bulgaria also discussed overcoming the socio-economic inequalities between Eastern and Western Europe in the context of the Three Seas Initiative. The development of the scientific, educational and technological potential of the region and the development of joint innovation projects contribute to the improvement of transport, digital and energy connectivity in the region, it was noted during the meeting.

Fabrizio Zarcone pointed out that as a full member of the World Bank Group, Bulgaria is an extremely valuable partner of the international financial institution. Our joint cooperation aims to unleash the potential of Bulgaria, said the Permanent Representative of the World Bank.