German newspaper Die Welt published an interview with National Movement Simeon II (NMSII) leader Simeon Saxe-Coburg.

In the interview, the former prime minister tried to resolve EU worries concerning Bulgaria's upcoming membership and the changes it would lead to within the union.

Bulgarian authorities understand the need for more decisive anti-corruption measures, Saxe-Coburg said. The problem is similar in many other countries and to solve it institutions need to focus on specific cases and look for concrete measures, said he.

Die Welt points out the latest EU report and evaluations according to which Bulgaria appears to be behind Romania with reforms implementation.

Saxe-Coburg said he cannot analyse developments in other countries. A Transparency International report ranks Bulgaria 54th on corruption level, which means the country is doing better than some EU member states, he said.

A delayed accession would set a negative example to countries hoping to join the EU in the future, said Saxe-Coburg. Such development would also affect Bulgarians. Nationalist parties already gain popularity in the country and a rejection might enable them become more influential. ation courses.