The European Parliament has voted for an increase in the funds allocated for Bulgaria after European deputies in Strasbourg approved the budget of the EU for 2017.

European deputy Andrey Novakov commented that, despite the crises which the EU faces, the budget has succeeded in securing necessary financing in priority areas.

Regarding key areas for Bulgaria, there are significant increases, which I am certain we will be able to utilise, added Novakov.

EUR 600 M more will be allocated for agriculture and in compensation for the embargo on Russia, while EUR 1.5 B more will be set aside for dealing with youth unemployment.

EUR 400 M more will be given for Horizon 2020 for scientists and innovations. EUR 400 M more will be allocated for interconnecting Europe via new railway lines, bridges, roads. 

EUR 200 M more will be allocated for COSME (EU programme for the Competitiveness of Enterprises and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) in support of small and medium-size businesses and EUR 200 more will be provided for Erasmus + in support of students and professors.