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New Framework Program for Roma Integration that connects, unites and synchronizes the efforts of all institutions as well as the ones of the civil society is necessary. It will be prepared by the National Council for Cooperation on Ethnic and Demographic Issues (NCCEDI) with significant participation of non-governmental organizations.

This was one of the main statements of Mr. Stanishev – Prime Minister of Republic of Bulgaria during the special meeting with Roma activists that took place on April 8, the International Roma Day. MP from Roma origin Toma Tomov, deputy ministers Sasho Filipov and Baki Huyseinov, deputy-chairs of the NCCEDI Miroslav Popov and Deyan Kolev and representatives of more than 20 Roma NGOs took part in the meeting.

The meeting took almost 2 hours and all Roma activists who wanted to make presentations had the chance to do it. Answering their suggestions and recommendations Mr. Stanishev agreed that more Roma should be appointed in the police. It is necessary also all municipalities to prepare their strategies for Roma integration and this could be fostered through normative and legislative changes. The Prime-Minister insisted on the role NCCEDI has to play for coordination and consultation. Its competences in this direction should be strengthened but it is unrealistic to expect that the Council will become State agency of Ministry. The active participation of Roma NGOs  in the decision-making process regarding Roma integration is not just desirable but also obligatory – pointed Mr. Stanishev.