Bulgaria will defend today the position of EU member states to act cautiously in repealing the measures against the proliferation of Covid-19. It will be presented during an informal videoconference of the EU Council on Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs, Health section.
During the meeting, ministers will discuss the situation and evaluate the measures taken to manage the COVID-19 crisis, including taking into account a possible second wave of diseases. Discussions will focus on issues related to the capacity of national health systems, the possibilities of mitigating restrictive measures, the impact of the implemented coordinated European approach to addressing the situation and possible additional support from the European Commission to complement national action.
Bulgaria will inform that the capacity of the health care system is adequate to the needs of the country and is oriented towards the expected additional burden upon reaching the peak of the epidemic. At EU level, it is important to continue exchanging information on the measures taken by individual Member States and the dissemination of COVID-19. Each Member State should carefully assess the risks and benefits of repealing the measures introduced. A cautious approach is justified, in which not only the choice of the right moment for change is important, but also the coverage of essential areas (for example in sectors such as agriculture, construction, transport).
The Bulgarian position for participation in an informal videoconference of EU Foreign Ministers / Trade Ministers, to be held on 16 April 2020, was also approved. The trade agenda aspects of the COVID-19 epidemic are included on the agenda of the videoconference – implications for trade relations and the sustainability of globally integrated value chains and supplies.
An informal videoconference will also be held by the Council of the European Union for Economic and Financial Affairs (ECOFIN) on 16 April 2020. During the discussion, opinions will be exchanged on the latest assessment of ECOFIN on the economic impact of the pandemic.
A statement in support of bank lending for households and businesses experiencing temporary difficulties due to introductory measures is expected to be approved during this interview, the Government Information Service said.
Translation: Diana Todorova
