The series of agreements changing the 'map' of information technology in Greece

Petar Vitanov, leader of the parliamentary group of "Progressive Bulgaria," has made clear that the government will not reduce pensions or social payments despite the current financial challenges facing the country. The budget proposal presented by the government under Prime Minister Rumen Radev has drawn criticism from the opposition but Vitanov insists on maintaining existing income levels while working to stabilize the nation's finances. He described the situation as akin to receiving a diagnosis from a doctor—first identifying the problem, then beginning treatment. According to him, the state faces a deficit of 7.4 percent, which the government aims to reduce to 5.7 percent within five months. This plan includes addressing outstanding invoices and ensuring that no cuts are made to citizens' incomes.

Vitanov emphasized that there is no intention to revise the values of social benefits or pensions. His comments were in response to concerns about potential reductions following proposed audits of the State Social Insurance Fund. He stressed that the goal is to clarify the criteria used for increasing various social payments, ensuring future decisions are based on transparent and effective guidelines. Additionally, he assured that administrative reforms would focus on optimizing structures with overlapping functions and reducing unnecessary staff, without affecting those who work diligently.

The budget also addresses ongoing protests by trade unions and public sector employees, with Vitanov stating that these reforms will not lead to a reduction in net wages. He highlighted that the only individuals potentially affected financially are members of boards of state-owned enterprises who receive high salaries despite their companies operating at a loss. These individuals, according to Vitanov, are the ones whose compensation should be reduced.

Regarding the planned protests by mothers against the freezing of certain social policies, Vitanov affirmed that the government does not intend to cut existing payments. He stated that mothers will continue to receive the support they currently get and that future increases must be tied to economic productivity rather than arbitrary decisions.

Vitanov also commented on upcoming changes to the Higher Judicial Council, expressing his belief in the separation of powers and willingness to engage in dialogue with all parliamentary forces when selecting new members of this judicial body. He defended the decision to close the Commission for Dossiers, noting that after nearly four decades, its mission had long been fulfilled.

Political analyst Pervan Simeonov offered a critical perspective on the 2026 Budget, suggesting it might not represent a true policy shift but rather an attempt to address the current crisis. He noted that the government has adopted a more relaxed fiscal approach, moving away from the previous philosophy of the GERB party. However, he warned that such a significant change would be difficult to implement without risking systemic collapse due to the existing weaknesses in Bulgaria’s solidarity systems. He also speculated on the political landscape, indicating that a new political geography could emerge, possibly solidified during presidential elections and subsequent rounds.

Nikola Minchev, a Bulgarian MEP, criticized Radev for appearing to have different messages for different audiences, both domestically and internationally. He argued that this strategy could create doubts among European partners regarding Bulgaria’s stance. Minchev pointed out that Radev's positions on sanctions against Russia, particularly concerning the Russian patriarch and Lukoil shareholder, could place Bulgaria in a problematic position similar to Hungary under Viktor Orban. He further stated that the 2026 budget lacks reform initiatives, highlighting increased spending on administration instead of necessary structural changes. The European Commission has already signaled a risk of persistent deficits exceeding the allowed limit, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms to align with EU standards.