US, EU United on Bulgaria Urgent Need of New Penal Code

US Ambassador to Sofia, James Warlick, is firm Bulgaria needs to pass the new Penal Code as quickly as possible. Photo by BGNES

The Ambassadors to Bulgaria from the US and Spain stated for the Media Tuesday their countries' position on Bulgaria's new Penal Code.

Spanish Ambassador Jorge Fuentes, whose country now holds the European Union Presidency, pointed out that the reform of the judicial system and of the legislation are a crucial moment for both Bulgaria and the EU and expressed the Union's deep respect for institutions in the country.

Fuentes voiced hopes that the main documents, anticipated by the EU, will be passed with maximum speed and the judicial system reform will go on without interruptions.

The Spanish Ambassador was backed by his American counterpart, James Warlick, who stressed on his country's desire to see the strongest possible Penal Code adopted quickly and efficiently.

“We are not talking here about political parties and political stands; we are talking about what the people of Bulgaria want – to see a solid ground for the supremacy of the Law and passing the Penal Code is crucial in this process,” Warlick said, adding the US and the EC are firmly united around this position.

On April 8, Bulgaria's Socialist President Georgi Parvanov imposed a veto on two of the most controversial amendments to the Penal Code, which the Parliament adopted at the end of March.

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