This is essential for example if the internal market is to work in everyone's interest. We have started negotiations with Bulgaria on the various parts of the acquis. Since these negotiations started in February, we have opened 11 chapters and closed 8 of these. For the Swedish Presidency, the ambition is to open another 9 chapters. This is excellent progress made within a short period of time.
Negotiations are an important element of our work.
But for Bulgaria to actually join the Union and to become an effective member, these must go hand in hand with continuing efforts on reforms in key areas such as the economy, the judicial system, and the public administration. Preparing for EU membership represents a challenge for all candidates and needs much serious technical preparation. Whilst the main work of reform and preparation must lie with Bulgaria, the Commission will also support Bulgaria s efforts as best as we can. The EU has already provided substantial financial support. Bulgaria has received over 1 billion in Phare grants since 1990 .