Maxim Behar: Eurozone Will Bring to Bulgaria Only Benefits

"The Day Onair" is a television program that highlights the most current political, economic, and social topics in the country. Host Ganiella Angelova and her guests analyze important issues affecting both governance and society as a whole. In one of the latest editions, the topic was trust in the government and the upcoming economic challenges. A special guest was Maxim Behar, who shared his opinion on the matter.

Host: Mr. Behar, as we started our conversation with Associate Professor Zhivkov, we touched on the topic of trust in this administration. Another key point is the request for a convergence report in June. The European Central Bank and the European Commission will respond to us. How does this budget look?

Maxim: Good evening! The second question is quite positive because, in the end, we need to see what European financial experts think about the developments in Bulgaria – with all its advantages and disadvantages. I believe that if the global economy is doing well, the same will happen in Bulgaria. I do not expect major surprises. As for the trust issue – yes, I think there is trust in this government. It is absolutely deserved because it is a coalition of many political forces. Of course, people are tired of voting, and we are all exhausted from temporary governments. That is why I believe concerns are not too significant. The main worries relate to the need for the government to take serious economic measures and adopt a stable budget.

Host: You talk about communication policy – what should it be like?

Maxim: There must be a clear communication strategy, especially regarding the euro. People need to know what will happen, how it will impact the economy and their personal finances. So far, communication has been weak and unstructured. This government must immediately launch an information campaign explaining the steps and consequences of adopting the euro. The second important topic is the market economy. It should be explained that prices are determined by the market, not by administrative decisions. The state cannot impose artificial price controls – that only distorts the economic environment.

Host: What about controlling markups on certain products? Maxim: The market economy regulates these things itself. If there is competition, prices will balance out. Bulgaria should rely on market mechanisms rather than administrative restrictions.

Host: Are job cuts in the public administration possible?

Maxim: They are completely possible and even necessary. We have too many public servants who often do not contribute enough to administrative efficiency. It is time for a serious reform to reduce costs and increase productivity. A great example is Poland, where Leszek Balcerowicz introduced a conservative financial policy that led to economic growth.

Host: What should Bulgaria’s main economic strategy be?

Maxim: The strategy should be clear – work more, earn more, spend wisely. That is the logic of economic growth. If we continue accumulating debt and relying on loans, we will eventually face a serious crisis. Bulgaria has potential, but tough yet necessary decisions must be made.

The discussion on "The Day Onair" outlined some of the most critical challenges facing Bulgaria’s economy and political stability. According to Maxim Behar, the government has earned trust but must undertake bold reforms, improve communication with citizens, and follow a consistent economic strategy. The issues of adopting the euro, reducing administrative expenses, and maintaining a market economy remain crucial for the country's future.

Watch the full interview here.