`Despite the record high 5.8% economic growth in 2000 Bulgaria is experiencing some difficulties in maintaining macroeconomic stability`, the commission on foreign affairs at the European parliament said in its latest report on Bulgaria`s progress to EU membership, cited by Deutsche Welle. The report is based on the World Bank`s stand about the necessity of improving the taxation policy and debt management skills. In comparison to 1999 Bulgaria has made a substantial progress in establishing a functioning market economy but particular measures should be taken to ensure Bulgaria withstands the competitive pressure of the international markets. EUR 123 Bln should be invested in the public sector in order Bulgaria to be able to carry out the transition to a functioning market economy and to join the EU, the Strasbourg experts reckon and comment that the Bulgarian economy will find it hard to provide such an amount. The central administration should be improved, as well as the local authorities and the judiciary system with a view of meeting the criteria for full membership and providing social stability by meeting the needs of the poorest Bulgarian citizens. The living standard of many of the people has fallen considerably and at present stands at 32% of the average level in the EU member states. The expected drop to 16.5% next year is unsatisfactory.