Bulgaria's Deprivation Rate Drops but Still Among Highest in EU
According to the latest Eurostat data published today, 6.8% of the European Union's population experienced severe material and social deprivation in 2023
Amid growing concerns over security threats posed by Russian aggression, Bulgaria and a coalition of 13 other European Union countries have urged the European Investment Bank (EIB) to bolster defense financing. The call, joined by powerhouse nations Germany and France, aims to enhance the bloc's defense capabilities in response to escalating tensions, as reported by Bloomberg.
In a letter addressed to EIB President Nadia Calvino, European Council President Charles Michel and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo, representing the rotating EU Council leadership, emphasized the need for a comprehensive financing strategy to address the evolving security landscape. The letter, dated March 17, advocates for an expanded approach beyond existing dual-use projects, suggesting a redefinition of the term and a review of excluded activities.
The initiative comes against the backdrop of heightened concerns over Russia's military activities and its implications for European security. The signatories underscore the importance of proactive measures to reinforce defense infrastructure and readiness across the EU.
Notably, media reports on March 13 hinted at the EIB's deliberations on potential avenues to support the defense industry. The discussions signal a potential shift in the bank's role towards accommodating defense-related projects, reflecting the pressing need for bolstered defense capabilities amid geopolitical tensions.
We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!
An explosion occurred this morning in the heart of Cologne, Germany
Atanas Pekanov, Bulgaria's former vice-prime minister for European funds under the "Donev" administration, has warned that the country is likely to forfeit at least 500 million leva (250 million euros) from the Recovery and Sustainability Plan
Thierry Breton, France’s European Commissioner for the Internal Market, has resigned and withdrawn his candidacy for a future European Commission role
Germany is reinstating border controls on its land borders starting today as part of efforts to address illegal migration
The European Central Bank (ECB) has cut interest rates again as inflation in the Eurozone slows and economic growth falter
Hungary is considering legal action to compel the European Union’s executive commission to reimburse the costs it has incurred for border protection
Bulgaria Ranks Second in the Balkans at Paris 2024 Olympics, 26th Overall
Bulgaria Leads Europe in Heat-Related Deaths in Record-Breaking 2023