MEP Tsvetelina Penkova told the program that ending PACE monitoring after 27 years represents a significant achievement for Bulgaria. The Socialist and Democrat group member said the country gains equal status with other member states under the general rule of law monitoring instead of special oversight. Penkova warned that external recognition fails to resolve domestic legal problems or eliminate reform requirements.
The representative criticized two attempts to involve the European Parliament in the Blagomir Kotsev arrest case as a misuse of institutions for internal political disputes. She argued that inviting European bodies into such matters damages national prestige and undermines Bulgarian institutions. Penkova said procedures and laws of each country must guide the resolution of domestic issues.
The lawmaker emphasized that socialist parties should focus on defending working people and ensuring decent living standards. She highlighted concerns about Bulgarian citizens' rights in North Macedonia while acknowledging legal measures strengthening domestic law enforcement. Penkova stressed that citizens need practical changes beyond legislative reforms on paper.
The representative criticized two attempts to involve the European Parliament in the Blagomir Kotsev arrest case as a misuse of institutions for internal political disputes. She argued that inviting European bodies into such matters damages national prestige and undermines Bulgarian institutions. Penkova said procedures and laws of each country must guide the resolution of domestic issues.
The lawmaker emphasized that socialist parties should focus on defending working people and ensuring decent living standards. She highlighted concerns about Bulgarian citizens' rights in North Macedonia while acknowledging legal measures strengthening domestic law enforcement. Penkova stressed that citizens need practical changes beyond legislative reforms on paper.
