European Parliament backs Bulgaria's entry into eurozone in 2026

The European Parliament has endorsed Bulgaria’s accession to the eurozone, with a decisive vote during its June 8 plenary session.

Lawmakers adopted the report in favour of Bulgaria's admission with 531 votes in support, 69 against, and 79 abstentions, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

The vote, which was the first item on the agenda, required only a simple majority to pass. If approved by the EU Council, Bulgaria is set to officially join the eurozone on January 1, 2026.

"Bulgaria has been on this path for more than two decades. National legislation is coordinated with the EU. Bulgaria is ready, Europe is ready, let's take this step together," said Bulgarian MEP Eva Maydell during the session.

With the European Parliament’s position now established, the final decision will rest with the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN). Composed of the finance ministers of all 27 EU member states, the ECOFIN Council will convene in Brussels to determine the next and final step in the process.

By Sabina Mammadli