The European Union should focus on long-term solutions to support the stability of West African countries and improve the economic and social environment in the region. This is what Head of State Rumen Radev said at a meeting today with visiting French President's Special Envoy for West Africa Jean-Marie Boquel. The President said that Bulgaria stands in solidarity with the measures taken by France to ensure stability in West Africa and is following with concern the deteriorating security environment in that region.

The retreat from democracy and the rule of law in some West African countries is the cause of social and economic instability, which leads to an increase in migration flows to Europe, including to Bulgaria, Radev added. That is why, the President opines, in addition to short-term support to guarantee security in these countries, all- European actions are needed to promote economic growth and the development of areas such as education and healthcare. This is the only way to create opportunities for young people in the region to see their life and professional prospects in their home countries. During the meeting, Rumen Radev also pointed to Bulgaria's contribution to initiatives with African partners in the field of agriculture, education and medicine.