/europe
BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) -- The European Commission has frozen hundreds of millions in aid to Bulgaria citing corruption, organized crime and spending irregularities.
The European Commission indefinitely froze $774 million in aid and blacklisted two Bulgarian government agencies handling EU funds.
The measure would remain in place until "sound financial management structures are in place and operating effectively," the commission said in a statement.
Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov did not comment directly on the EU's criticisms, merely saying it was important that the country did not miss the opportunity that EU membership gave for modernization and improving living standards.
"Our European choice is something we have suffered for, and it is irreversible. We should not allow euroskeptic and populist moods to gain the upper hand," he said in a statement.
Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
All About Bulgaria • European Commission • European Union
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