Bulgarian Minister responsible for the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Lilyana Pavlova, has welcomed guests at the ceremony for the official opening of the Bulgarian term in office.

"For us, Bulgarians, joining the EU 11 years ago was a dream came true. With pride and confidence, we accept responsibility for being the President of the Council of the EU," the Minister said. Ms. Pavlova added that Bulgaria had a lot to give to Europe, starting with ancient history and culture and finishing with innovations.

She pointed out that the EU should not be divided into small and large, rich and poor, East and West. We are ready to meet all the challenges, she said, and once again focused on the importance of the motto of the Bulgarian Presidency: "Unity Makes Power."