Bulgaria's ex-PM hails Türkiye partnership as 'extremely important' for regional peace

2026-02-13 - 17:45

Former Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has characterized the partnership between Sofia and Ankara as "extremely important" for fostering regional stability and advancing peace initiatives. Speaking to Anadolu, Zhelyazkov emphasized that both countries serve as a model for neighboring states collaborating to facilitate peace processes globally. "With Türkiye, we are a very good example of how the partnership between neighboring countries can facilitate and promote the peace process in the world," he stated, noting their shared diplomatic engagement on Middle Eastern affairs. Clarifying the 'Two-Speed' Europe Concept Addressing ongoing discussions about a potential "two-speed" European Union, Zhelyazkov suggested the concept has been widely misunderstood. He explained that the initiative pertains primarily to capital market integration rather than creating political divisions within the bloc. "This initiative, I think that, is not very well understood," he said, clarifying that countries prepared to advance capital market simplification and enlargement may proceed while others join later according to readiness. He stressed this approach "is a very particular issue that would not bother the European integrity and the European Union at home." Balanced Middle East Engagement Turning to regional conflicts, Zhelyazkov affirmed that Bulgaria maintains diplomatic relations with both Israel and Palestine, believing such balanced engagement can help reduce tensions. "Both states are very important to mitigate all hostile narratives that exist because we need to establish peace and to promote the peace," he explained. The former premier's remarks underscore Sofia's commitment to maintaining constructive ties with all parties as a contribution to conflict resolution in the Middle East.