Minister Karadimov: Bulgaria's membership in the OECD will show the potential of the Bulgarian economy

Bulgaria's membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development will show the potential of the Bulgarian economy. The accession of our country to the OECD is a national priority and we are working hard for its realization. This was stated by the Minister of Innovation and Growth Rosen Karadimov during the hearing of the 94th session of the Committee of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) on digital policy. Minister Karadimov presented the national position regarding progress on the recommendations made by the Committee.

"Through the reforms on the way to membership, Bulgaria is working to create new jobs and introduce innovations in a number of sectors of the economy, in education, in the environment, etc.," stressed Minister Karadimov. He pointed out that Bulgaria has made significant progress in the accession process through a comprehensive approach that includes legislative reforms and investment in human capital.

Minister Karadimov emphasized that Bulgaria's accession initiatives promote innovation and transparency, strengthening digital security and contributing to the efficient and effective use of data.

Regarding better access and more efficient use of information in the public sector, as well as improving access to and exchange of data, Minister Karadimov emphasized that Bulgaria is developing a national Data Law and modernizing its Open Data Portal. The leaders in the process of facilitating the reuse of data are the Ministry of e-Government and the National Statistical Institute (NSI).

Karadimov stated that Bulgaria is making progress in building its National Health Information System as part of the upcoming European Health Data Space. The goal is to create an opportunity for cross-border exchange of health data and ensure control of individuals over their personal information.

The Minister of Innovation also stated that numerous projects are being implemented to increase information security, awareness, competence development, incident management, knowledge and innovation in this area. Karadimov emphasized that the measures related to the development of artificial intelligence are integrated in the National Road Map of Bulgaria for the digital decade.

"Bulgaria continues its commitment to progress related to digital transformation in line with OECD recommendations in the field of digital policy and new technological advances. By continuing to make these efforts, we strive to build a more sustainable and digitally-enabled future," stressed Minister Karadimov.

After the hearing, it became clear that a positive decision was made and Bulgaria is closing the chapter on digital policy.