“The European integration of our neighbours has no alternative and we shall continue to support them in their initiatives and to encourage their efforts,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Valentin Poriazov at the plenary session of the South-East Europe Cooperation Process (SEECP) Parliamentary Assembly in Sofia. The forum is focusing on “20 years SEECP: The region – new realities, shared prospects.”

“A year ago Bulgaria took over the organization’s chairmanship-in-office for the second time determined to continue the cooperation in different sectors as the region’s platform of development,” Deputy Minister Poriazov said.

“The region is recovering from the economic crisis” said on his part Roberto Battelli, Vice-President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE, adding that we are now facing the most serious migrant crisis of all.

“At a time when difficulties recognize no borders, working together is vital,” Roberto Battelli said. “As parliamentarians we must play a crucial role in asserting the supremacy of law and the fight against corruption,” he said.

The opening speech at the plenary session was delivered by Bulgarian National Assembly President Tsetska Tsacheva who is currently presiding over the Parliamentary Assembly of the SEECP.