Today, the Presidency of the EU Council and the Federal Council of the Swiss Confederation signed an addition to the Memorandum of Understanding between the European Community and Switzerland, determining Swiss financial contribution for the aims of EU enlargement, according to which Bulgaria receives contribution of 76 million Swiss francs.

This was reported by the Bulgarian representation in the Council. The official name of this aid is "Contribution to reduce economic and social disparities within the enlarged European Union", as funds are intended for 4 areas - security and stability, improving infrastructure and environment, encouraging private sector and social and human development.

Such funds, amounting to 1 billion Swiss francs, were received by the ten new members which joined EU in 2004. The financial assistance for Romania, also specified in the memorandum signed today is 181 million Swiss francs.

Meanwhile in Berne, discussions about the free movement of nationals of the two newest members of the EU continue. While Switzerland insists on holding a referendum to approve or not to approve the free movement, the EU wants equal attitude towards all its member states.