Galery

1

I believe that GERB’s policy to Macedonia was one of the few right things in the sphere of foreign policy that Bulgaria has done. We cannot be kindly disposed to someone, to treat him well, to want to help him and at the same time, to get in return constant criticism, accusations and theft of history, which is an objective fact. This is not normal. Since Skopje behaves to Bulgaria in this way and has a negative and provocative attitude, they cannot expect us to be infinitely benevolent and to support them in their European integration. If they want it to go well, let them be so kind as to recognize the things that are historical facts. I'm not like the extreme Bulgarian nationalists who do deny the right of Macedonians to be called Macedonians or to have their own country. Of course, they have the right to call themselves so and to speak their own language, which was invented several decades ago. This is the present and it is foolish to reject it. But at the same time, it is equally foolish to agree with their pretentions as regards the Bulgarian history of 100 and even 1000 years ago.  A good attitude to Macedonia and support for their integration only in return for good attitude on their part to Bulgaria.

How would you comment on the request of the MRF to increase the number of school classes in their mother tongue, especially considering the fact that they only advocate the Turkish language and there are other minorities in Bulgaria?

The MRF has the right to ask for that. Each party, in compliance with the interests of its electorate, can ask for everything. As you saw, Siderov asked for a minimum wage of 1000 leva. After some time, another party that will win enough votes to enter parliament may ask for some very foolish thing.

So, a request is a request. The question is whether it is satisfied. This is where the skill and responsibility of the governors should be demonstrated. The people who govern must consider what is best for Bulgaria and say whether such a request responds to the request of the majority of Bulgarian citizens and whether it would adversely affect the majority of citizens if it were satisfied. They are the people who must say whether a request is consistent with reality or not. I rely on the wisdom of the Bulgarian government.