The World Ahead 2026: Sofia Gala Dinner

The Economist’s assessments of the political and economic environment in Bulgaria and south-east Europe as well as the conditions that affect investment, growth and co-operation in the region will be presented by an expert analyst on regional issues and the conference’s chair Joan Hoey.

Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Joan Hoey Europe Consultant

Bulgaria has become the euro zone’s 21st member since January 1st, 2026. What are the benefits for the country, the regional economic ties and Europe’s cohesion? Does this path also entail risks and challenges? At the same time, Bulgaria is approaching the final stage of OECD membership. The country’s forthcoming accession to the OECD will mark a major milestone in its economic modernization and alignment with global best practices. How will OECD membership reshape Bulgaria’s economic landscape and enhance its contribution to regional and global policymaking?

Iliana Iotova, president of Bulgaria 

Bulgaria’s euro zone entry: financial transformation and regional implications for South-East Europe

This session will explore the economic and financial outlook following Bulgaria’s euro zone accession, with a focus on banking sector adaptation, policy coordination, and growth prospects. It will also examine how this milestone reshapes financial dynamics across South-East Europe and supports deeper European integration.

Dimitar Radev, governor, Bulgarian National Bank

Dimitar Radev Governor

This panel will explore the economic and financial environment in south-east Europe and will try to highlight the response of the banking systems to the governments’ fiscal and growth policies and also to the businesses and the citizens’ needs.

Yannis Stournaras, governor, Bank of Greece

Yannis Stournaras Governor

This session will discuss policies that can support competitiveness and growth in Bulgaria and the wider region at a time of trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty. Raising productivity and improving the business environment - including through deeper integration of the EU Single Market - are essential pillars to help central, eastern and south-east European economies accelerate their convergence toward the European frontier.

Carlos Mulas-Granados, senior resident representative, IMF Regional Office for Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe

This session will explore how Bulgaria and the wider region are adapting to a rapidly shifting geopolitical and economic landscape, with a focus on energy security and diversification. It will examine the implications for business strategy, investment opportunities and regional competitiveness in the years ahead.

In dialogue with business:
Lubo Minchev, founder and chief executive, Telelink
Rakan Rahbani, executive director, Aurubis Bulgaria
Reny Mitkova, chair of the board, EOS Bulgaria 
Dimitris Papoulis, chief executive officer, Trade Estates

This session will explore how Bulgaria’s entry into the euro area could shape its macroeconomic trajectory and deepen its integration into European financial markets. It will outline both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with euro adoption, including the need for fiscal discipline and structural reforms.

Philip R. Lane, member of the executive board, European Central Bank

Philip R. Lane Member of the executive board