Ilhan Kyuchyuk: If Bulgaria does not take a leadership role in the Balkans, someone else will do it instead

MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk (MRF/Renew Europe) hosted a visitor group at the European Parliament from the regions of Blagoevgrad and Burgas, including the awarded participants of the annual student competition “The Dreams of Ventsi Stanev”, dedicated to the memory of the respected long-time principal of Tsar Simeon the Great Secondary School in Vidin — Ventsi Stanev.

During the visit, participants had the opportunity to learn more about the work of the European Parliament, visit the plenary chamber, and engage in a discussion with Ilhan Kyuchyuk on key topics related to the future of Europe, Bulgaria’s role, and the importance of active civic participation.

“Bulgaria is at the heart of the Balkans – not only geographically, but also historically, culturally, and politically. In a region full of challenges and opportunities, our country has the potential to be a driver of stability, development, and European integration. But leadership is not granted – it is earned through active policy, vision, and the will to act. If we do not take the initiative and claim our rightful place as a key player in the region, others will. Bulgaria must not be just a participant, but a leading voice in regional processes – proposing solutions, building bridges between nations, and standing as a symbol of European values in a space still striving for stability. It is time to step out of the periphery and take our place at the center of decision-making,” stated Ilhan Kyuchyuk.

As part of the program, the Bulgarian group also visited several landmarks in Brussels, including one of the Belgian capital’s most iconic monuments – the Atomium.

Тази публикация е достъпна и на следните езици: Bulgarian