Strasbourg: MEPs have given a favorable opinion on Bulgaria’s bid to adopt the euro and join the Euro area starting from January 1, 2026. The European Parliament voted with 531 in favor, 69 against, and 79 abstentions to adopt a report confirming that Bulgaria fulfills the necessary criteria for adopting the euro by the set date.
According to Cyprus News Agency, this development will position Bulgaria as the 21st member of the Euro area, following the most recent addition of Croatia in 2023. The decision marks a significant step toward Bulgaria’s further integration into the European Union.
Rapporteur Eva Maydell, representing the European People’s Party from Bulgaria, expressed that the vote indicates Bulgaria’s readiness to join the Euro area. She stated, “All criteria have been met, and this step marks a key milestone towards Bulgaria’s full European integration – for the country and its citizens.”
A press conference with Rapporteur Eva Maydell is scheduled for 14:00 CET in Strasbourg. Journalists can participate and ask questions by logging in through Interactio. The European Parliament’s opinion will be conveyed to the current Euro area member states, who are expected to provide Bulgaria with the final approval later today.