美媒：保加利亚最早可能明年使用欧元，或成为欧元区第21个成员国

Core Viewpoint - Bulgaria is on track to join the Eurozone, potentially adopting the euro as early as January 1, 2026, following a report from the European Commission and the European Central Bank [1][2]. Group 1: Economic Implications - Bulgaria's accession to the Eurozone is expected to enhance trade relations with other EU countries, reduce transaction costs, and increase its influence within the EU [1]. - Currently, Bulgaria's currency, the lev, is pegged to the euro, but it lacks a voice in the European Central Bank's monetary policy as it is not yet a member [1]. - The country's GDP accounts for less than 1% of the EU total, which raises concerns about its limited influence in the European Central Bank's decision-making [2]. Group 2: Public Sentiment and Concerns - There are public concerns regarding potential price increases following the adoption of the euro, which could negatively impact the living standards of poorer families in rural areas [2]. - Some citizens remain skeptical about joining the Eurozone, with calls for a national referendum on the issue being dismissed as unconstitutional [2]. - Historical precedents from other countries that joined the Eurozone indicate that lower-priced countries may experience inflation as their prices align with higher Eurozone averages [2]. Group 3: Eurozone Expansion Context - Since its establishment in 1999, the Eurozone has been expanding eastward, with Croatia being the most recent member to adopt the euro on January 1, 2023 [2]. - Currently, seven EU member states, including Bulgaria, are not part of the Eurozone [3].