Application for EU Membership
Bulgaria officially applied for EU membership, marking the beginning of its journey towards integration into the European Union.
1999
2000
Accession Negotiations Begin
The European Union formally opened accession negotiations with Bulgaria, setting the stage for the country's eventual membership.
2004
Completion of Negotiations
Bulgaria successfully completed its EU accession negotiations, meeting the requirements for membership.
2005
Accession Treaty Signed
Bulgaria signed the EU Accession Treaty, officially paving the way for its membership in the European Union.
2007
EU Membership
Bulgaria became a full member of the European Union on January 1, 2007, joining the EU as its 26th member state.
2008
First Year of EU Membership
Bulgaria completed its first year as an EU member, focusing on aligning its policies and regulations with EU standards.
2009
European Parliament Elections
Bulgaria participated in its first European Parliament elections as an EU member state, electing representatives to the EU legislative body.
2010
EU Structural Funds Utilization
Bulgaria began utilizing EU structural funds to support its economic development and infrastructure projects.
2011
Schengen Area Candidacy
Bulgaria intensified its efforts to join the Schengen Area, aiming to enhance its integration within the EU.
2012
Judicial Reforms
Bulgaria implemented significant judicial reforms to meet EU standards and improve its legal system.
2013
EU Presidency Preparations
Bulgaria began preparations to assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, scheduled for 2018.
2014
EU Cohesion Policy Implementation
Bulgaria continued to implement the EU Cohesion Policy, focusing on reducing regional disparities and promoting sustainable development.
2018
EU Council Presidency
Bulgaria held the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, playing a key role in shaping EU policies and priorities.
2019
EU Elections
Bulgaria participated in the European Parliament elections, contributing to the formation of the EU's legislative agenda.
2020
EU Green Deal Participation
Bulgaria committed to the European Green Deal, aiming to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
2021
Recovery and Resilience Plan
Bulgaria submitted its Recovery and Resilience Plan to the EU, outlining its strategy for economic recovery post-COVID-19 pandemic.
2022
Digital Transformation Initiatives
Bulgaria launched several digital transformation initiatives in line with EU digital strategy goals.
2023
Enhanced EU Integration Efforts
Bulgaria continued to enhance its integration efforts within the EU, focusing on economic, social, and political alignment.
2024
EU Strategic Autonomy
Bulgaria supported EU initiatives aimed at strengthening the union's strategic autonomy in various sectors, including energy and defense.
