European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will receive Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev in Brussels on May 28, according to an announcement by European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho. The meeting will mark the first official talks between von der Leyen and Radev since he took office as head of government earlier this month.
Pinho described the upcoming meeting as part of the European Commission’s usual diplomatic practice toward newly elected leaders within the European Union. Her comments came after journalists asked whether the visit carried additional political significance because of criticism directed at Radev over claims that he holds pro-Russian positions.
“This is entirely normal practice,” Pinho said, explaining that the Commission traditionally organizes meetings with new prime ministers after they assume office. She pointed out that Bulgaria now has a new head of government and added that similar talks could soon take place with Hungary’s new prime minister as well.
“These leaders are democratically elected,” the spokesperson stressed while outlining the Commission’s position. According to her, the meeting is being organized in Radev’s institutional capacity as Bulgaria’s newly appointed prime minister.
The European Commission has not yet provided details about the agenda of the talks or the topics expected to be discussed during the Brussels visit. However, the meeting comes at a time when Bulgaria is seeking to strengthen its position within key European discussions following the formation of the new government.
Radev assumed office as prime minister on May 8, and the Brussels trip will become his second official visit abroad since taking over the post. Earlier this week, he traveled to Berlin at the invitation of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. During that visit, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and European issues.
The Bulgarian prime minister is also expected back in Brussels on June 18 and 19 for the next meeting of the European Council, where EU leaders will gather for a summit focused on the bloc’s major political and economic priorities. The June visit will coincide with Radev’s 63rd birthday.