Borissov: A third wave of COVID-19 and severe restrictions await us



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There is no talk of opening Europe until March. A third wave and very severe restrictions are expected, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said in an emergency speech. He is in Brussels for a meeting of leaders of the European Union.

After negotiating the budget until 2027, there were controversial hours of debate about the future of the green economy, as well as the approach to the COVID-19 crisis.

According to Borissov, the end of the pandemic is expected in late August or October next year, provided that 70% of Europe’s population is vaccinated in order to create the so-called herd immunity.

“The results are good, but they do not show that we should be optimistic that the pandemic in Bulgaria will end at Christmas. Christmas and the New Year should be celebrated in a close family circle, without mass gatherings,” Borissov recommended.

Euroleaders has discussed all possible options for purchasing and delivering vaccines, the prime minister said.

“If it weren’t for Ursula von der Leyen, the member states would never have known which country to take, how many vaccines, which vaccines. It is a lot of work. We will have this logistics for first-line vaccination, “Borissov said.

Borissov reiterated that it is extremely important that people are vaccinated, because antigen tests, PCR tests, harmonization of standards in the EU, will allow easier movement between countries in time.

I also talked to Kurz about winter tourism, because he intends to release it, since we, of course, with very strict measures in terms of masks, meeting at the hotel, the distance. But so that these fans of winter sports can practice them, there are many tourist centers in Bulgaria. I repeat, rapid antigen tests can be at the service of companies, ”said the Prime Minister.

EU leaders have also discussed the issue of climate change, which has been very difficult, Borissov added.

“There are many coal-fired power plants in Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary and in our region. And we cannot close ours and keep theirs open. We proposed 50% as the European Council, the EP proposed an emission ceiling of the 60%. Or as of 2030 we should have 55% less harmful emissions for the entire European Union “, explained the Prime Minister. According to him, this decision allowed to help the States that have that legacy. This plan is already being worked on .

He said that all European leaders are waiting for a deal on Brexit as time is running out. Regarding the Eastern Mediterranean, Borissov stressed that, as a member state of the EU, Bulgaria supports Greece, but insists on finding a solution to the Ankara problem.

“We were very persistent. The provocative military move is of no use to anyone. We condemn the attack on prominent figures in Europe. I do not think it is ethical or good for our relations. The German presidency has worked hard to find a solution. Yes” There are sanctions . Turkey remains our biggest neighbor and partner in NATO. Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria are the southern flank of NATO, we must trust each other, “he said.

Borissov thanked Christine Lagarde for extending the bank moratorium. However, the prime minister stressed that this could not last long because it would affect the banking system.

“I am concerned that no one is talking about overcoming the economic and social crisis. The earliest period mentioned is after March, April or May. In the best of cases, in August. And the biggest experts point out that growth will begin in October. “This blocking of people in households creates many problems for both the economy and health, but what I see is that this is the only way that Europe has decided to act,” he said.

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