“Sanctions were meant to reinforce Bulgaria’s choices which deepen its integration in Europe and cooperation with global companies, as well as the diversification of energy sources,” Ambassador Jim O'Brien, Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the US Department of State said in an interview with the BNR.

• US sanctions Bulgarian officials, firms for corruption, adding them to Magnitsky list

After meetings with President Rumen Radev, with members of the caretaker cabinet and representatives of political parties, Ambassador O'Brien stated that there was an understanding in the country for reforms in the fight against corruption but that real action needs to be taken. Ambassador Jim O'Brien stated further that the US would like to see next a focus on judicial reform as a clear commitment from all parties to introduce reform and to vote it as a priority in the new parliament.