Bulgaria is to gradually eliminate officials recognition of diplomas issued by foreign colleges and universities, Education Minister, Sergey Ignatov, told representatives of Bulgarian media in Brussels.

The verification of diplomas of students who wish to continue their studies in Bulgarian universities and colleges will become the respective school's responsibility.

The Minister further informed the Bulgarian Economy and Energy Ministry has provided assistance in the use of part of the EU funds to establish a national research and science center with five technology parks, aligned with European standards. The goal is to have a facility providing such contemporary work conditions that will make young Bulgarians remain in their homeland.

The center will focus on research for the food industry, pharmaceuticals, IT and electronics. The initial investment, secured by the Economy Ministry, is EUR 100 M.

Ignatov said that during his meetings in Brussels he will support the request of the countries, which recently joined the EU for better access to education and science funds after 2013, saying the 12 "new" EU countries will ask for the establishment of more scientific complexes in Eastern Europe.

"If Europe does not develop science, it is threatened to become a countryside on the backdrop of the processes in the US and the Far East," the Minister pointed out.

Ignatov is in Brussels to take part in the regularly scheduled session of the EU Counsel on Competitiveness. His agenda further includes a meeting with the EU Commissioner Education, Culture, Multilingualism and Youth, Androulla Vassiliou.