PM Gurov Says Budget Legacy Leaves Hard Choices Ahead

Caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gurov stated during an interview with the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) that current budget challenges are complex and reflect the legacy of the previous administration. Speaking to reporters, Gurov noted that Bulgaria operates under an extended budget, attributing current financial conditions to the former cabinet’s governance. He emphasized that the incoming government and Parliament must adopt a new, regular budget that includes measures to prevent an increase in the budget deficit.

Gurov characterized the current global economic situation as difficult. He highlighted the caretaker government’s swift response as an example of effective crisis management—being timely, targeted toward vulnerable groups, and beneficial to businesses and households. Regarding future economic planning, he stated that the nation must prepare for several development scenarios: realistic, pessimistic, and strongly pessimistic, acknowledging that “there will be a price, and we will all pay it.”

Concerning the proposal to reduce the capital of the Bulgarian Development Bank (BDB) by EUR 1.445 billion, Gurov labeled it an anti-corruption measure, clarifying it was not funds diverted from municipalities or energy efficiency projects.

He questioned the bank’s operational integrity, suggesting its issues stemmed from connected companies and political influence. On other topics, Gurov explained that the BOTAS contract payments had been suspended but remained due. Regarding the security agreement with Ukraine, he clarified it was a non-binding political declaration, not a treaty, intended to foster future cooperation in defense and economy.

Finally, when questioned about the war in Iran, Gurov stated Bulgaria has no involvement, noting that any prior communication regarding American aircraft predates the caretaker government.

Topics: #budget #gurov #legacy