Abstract

The need of accelerated economic development of Bulgaria during the next years and decades has been justified. The normal and accelerated developments have been characterised, as well as their driving forces. 15 strong starting positions immediately before joining the EU have been listed. About 40 weak starting positions have been pointed out too. A short economic characteristic of the strong and weak points has been made. Ideas for future economic policy concerning most of the weak points have been proposed. It has been proven that the weaknesses of the economy have been accumulated for years and Bulgaria is not ready to accede to the Union in equal terms. Nevertheless, only as a EU member Bulgaria will have more favourable conditions for accelerated development. The country has no alternative to the EU membership and accelerated development. The combination of the two processes corresponds best to the national interests of Bulgaria.