Bulgaria Adopts the Euro After 20 Years of Joining the EU

Sofia: On Thursday, Bulgaria became the 21st eurozone member, replacing the lev with the euro nearly 20 years after joining the EU. The change was marked in Sofia with projections of euro coins on the central bank and coincided with New Year celebrations, blending optimism with concerns over inflation and political instability.

ECB President Christine Lagarde welcomed Bulgaria, calling the euro a ‘symbol of shared values and collective strength.’ While governments say the move strengthens EU ties, boosts the economy and reduces Russian influence, public opinion remains divided over rising prices and political uncertainty.