With less than two weeks until a pivotal election, the American public is eager for clear policy solutions from both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris aimed at rebuilding the economy and enhancing national security.

In Pennsylvania, Trump emphasized that companies manufacturing outside the US would face significant tariffs, outlining a vision to address unfair practices from foreign nations. To foster an environment conducive to foreign direct investment and create American jobs, there is a pressing need to combat corruption abroad.

Corruption has been a longstanding issue, particularly in Bulgaria, which has consistently been identified as one of the most corrupt countries in Europe according to Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index. This issue has been highlighted by experts who emphasize its impact on governance and economic development. Recently, Bulgaria agreed to purchase 1.3 billion dollars in US-made F-16 fighter jets, a move expected to support thousands of American manufacturing jobs.

Promoting the rule of law and addressing corruption are critical not only for economic growth but also for essential humanitarian efforts. For instance, the European Anti-Fraud Office investigated a food aid scam that resulted in nearly 30 million dollars disappearing from a food aid program in Romania, with links traced back to stakeholders of Bulgaria’s First Investment Bank.

The relationship between a strong legal framework and a healthy financial system is crucial. In late 2023, Bulgaria was placed on the Financial Action Task Force's “grey list,” reflecting serious scrutiny of its banking sector and complicating international business operations. Investbank is a notable example of corruption within the country, facing accusations of laundering substantial amounts for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

Bulgaria's situation underscores the necessity for accountability among foreign financial institutions involved in corrupt practices. The recent sanctions imposed by the US Department of the Treasury on five current and former Bulgarian government officials for corruption in the energy and financial sectors highlight the seriousness of the issue. These sanctions are a reminder that corruption has far-reaching implications, costing the Bulgarian populace hundreds of millions of dollars and stifling economic growth.

As former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo noted, Bulgaria has the potential to become a European energy hub. To effectively counter Russian aggression and strengthen NATO alliances, it is essential that the recent parliamentary elections in Bulgaria serve as a turning point in the fight against corruption.

Political leaders in the US and Bulgaria must commit to decisive action to eradicate corruption in Eastern Europe and reinforce the rule of law. With Bulgaria's parliamentary elections having taken place on October 27, now is the time for meaningful reforms if there is a genuine desire to strengthen international partnerships and uphold democratic values.

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This opinion piece, first published in The Washington Times, reflects the views of Gresham Barrett, a former special adviser and chief of staff to the executive director of the World Food Program and a former US Congressman representing South Carolina’s 3rd District.