Plevneliev Sworn in as President, Vows to Make Bulgaria Wealthier
Rosen Plevneliev was sworn in as president in the National Assembly on Thursday, three months after winning the elections in the country.
Under Bulgaria's Constitution, the swearing-in ceremony takes place three days before the term of the incumbent head of state expires. Plevneliev will be inaugurated on Sunday.
In his maiden speech Plevneliev said he would work to make Bulgaria wealthier, with developed regions and a competitive economy, where young people choose to stay. His speech was broadcast live on national television and radio.
"At present Bulgarians' income stands at 43% of the EU average, in 2020 it should be no less than 70%, [...] the country should be among the top 50 in terms of competitiveness in the EU, workers' productivity should increase from the current 42% to at least 60% of the EU average," Plevneliev said.
Plevneliev also said Bulgaria needs to adopt a new, pragmatic approach to energy aimed to make the country energy-efficient, green and independent on the will of one supplier or another.