Austrian Salzburger Nachrichten Daily published an article on Bulgaria and its negotiations with the European Union, painting a rather gloomy picture of the Balkan country. The article claims Bulgaria is the poorest country to hold negotiations with the European Union. Bulgaria’s Gross Domestic Product, in terms of purchase power, accounts for just one fourth of the standard EU member states, which is the lowest figure among all EU applicant states. The article points out that in 1996-97 the Bulgarian economy marked a 20% fall, 10% of which have been compensated. For the ruling Simeon II National Movement which won the June general elections and its leader King Simeon Saxe-Coburg EU and NATO-accession remain top priorities. Nevertheless, the author concedes that EU report on Bulgarian economic situation is flattering, noting that some progress has been made in the reform in state administration. Citing the EU report the article points out that no control on the practical application of the adopted laws is exerted. The discrimination of Roma and homosexual minorities, widespread corruption, cruelty of the policemen and the traffic in people are mentioned as the main obstacles to Bulgaria’s EU entry.

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