The Minister of Environment and Water Manol Genov attended the EU Environment Council meeting in Brussels.

The ministers exchanged views on the environmental dimension of the Clean Industry Pact – the new comprehensive growth strategy, providing incentives for industry decarbonization. There was a common understanding that the EU should position itself as an attractive manufacturing hub, promoting clean technologies and circular business models.

Bulgaria positively assessed the initiative, taking into account the need for urgent measures to strengthen national and European competitiveness, while maintaining environmental priorities. “Achieving a truly effective, inclusive and just transition is only possible with balanced solutions to address energy, economic, and social challenges,” said Minister Manol Genov. He highlighted funding resources among the biggest challenges, stressing that expanding financial mechanisms and their accessibility to all sectors and operators will accelerate the deployment of clean and innovative technologies.

The meeting continued with a discussion on global environmental policies, during which Bulgaria expressed high appreciation for the role of the United Nations Environment Programme and supported the strengthening of multilateral cooperation. Expectations were expressed for the successful finalization of international negotiations on the new legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. Recognizing that solving environmental challenges is based on the joint efforts of governments, businesses, scientific circles, and civil society, Minister Genov emphasized that "ambitious actions must provide balanced environmental, social, and economic benefits."

The Ministers also discussed the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Minister Genov stressed that options for supporting the transition in the sectors covered by the CBAM and the European Emissions Trading System should be considered, including maintaining the free allocation of allowances for as long as possible or at least levelling the playing field for fair competition between European and global producers.

Minister Genov also participated at a working breakfast of the Party of European Socialists, chaired by the Danish Minister for the Environment, Magnus Heunicke. At the meeting, the European Commission was represented by the Executive Vice President for a Clean, Fair and Competitive Transition, Teresa Ribera. The meeting discussed current topics on the European agenda. Minister Genov extended an invitation to Ms Ribera to visit Bulgaria, which was accepted.