Министерството на Външните Работи на Република България поема грижа за провеждането на Българската външна политика. Предоставя услуги за граждани, живеещи или пътуващи извън пределите на Републиката https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/ Thu, 10 Sep 2026 07:38:45 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48894 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48894 Fri, 04 Sep 2026 09:39:24 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN, addressed the UNICEF Executive Board during its Second Regular Session as it opened on September 1st. In her statement, she reaffirmed Bulgaria’s strong support for UNICEF and stressed the importance of protecting children’s rights in the digital age. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN, addressed the UNICEF Executive Board during its Second Regular Session as it opened on September 1st. In her statement, she reaffirmed Bulgaria’s strong support for UNICEF and stressed the importance of protecting children’s rights in the digital age. She highlighted that children’s rights, safety and meaningful participation must remain at the heart of discussions on emerging technologies and AI governance, while also underscoring the need for predictable funding so UNICEF can continue delivering for the world's most vulnerable children. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48888 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48888 Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:53:48 +0300 Dear compatriots, In connection with the Unification Day of Bulgaria, we would like to inform you that the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Yerevan will be closed on 07.09.2026. Dear compatriots, In connection with the Unification Day of Bulgaria, we would like to inform you that the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Yerevan will be closed on 07.09.2026. In urgent cases, please contact the Consular Service at the duty phone number: +37496405210. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48899 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48899 Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:39:35 +0300 The participation of HAND Theatre with Shakespeare x 5 at the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, supported by the Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Edinburgh, marked an important step in the theatre’s international development and in bringing Bulgarian performing arts to an international audience. The participation of HAND Theatre with Shakespeare x 5 at the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, supported by the Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Edinburgh, marked an important step in the theatre’s international development and in bringing Bulgarian performing arts to an international audience. Between 7 and 30 August, the production was performed for 24 consecutive days and received strong critical feedback. The Wee Review awarded it four stars, Binge Fringe Magazine described one of its scenes as “one of the best clown sequences at the festival”, while FringeReview included the production among its recommended shows. British Theatre Guide also published a positive review. Beyond the performances, the team met with international artists, producers and theatre organisations, opening discussions about future guest performances, partnerships and collaborative projects. The Fringe experience also prompted discussions about a future Bulgarian showcase at the festival, creating an opportunity for more Bulgarian artists and productions to present their work to international audiences and industry professionals. The support of the Consulate of the Republic of Bulgaria in Edinburgh and the Municipality of Plovdiv played an important role both in the theatre’s participation and in creating new opportunities for international development. The support of the Bulgarian community in Scotland was also greatly appreciated, including by Bulgarians who travelled from elsewhere specifically to attend the performances. The Fringe experience has already inspired HAND Theatre’s next international initiative, HANDpicked: PLOVDIV 2027, through which international productions will be brought to audiences in Plovdiv. The Consulate of the Republic of Bulgaria in Edinburgh remains committed to supporting and assisting Bulgarian artists and creative organisations interested in presenting their work in Scotland and developing international professional partnerships. We believe that Bulgarian artists have much to offer on the international stage and are keen to help create more opportunities for Bulgarian culture to be seen and experienced in Scotland. We congratulate HAND Theatre on its achievements and on its successful presentation of Bulgarian theatre on the international stage. Video review: https://youtu.be/V_W_7HZYBOI?is=ES-sJf66y1eC7yUb  The Wee Review: https://theweereview.com/review/shakespeare-x-5/ Binge Fringe Magazine: https://www.bingefringe.com/2026/08/15/review-shakespeare-x5-hand-theatre-edfringe-2026-%E2%98%85%E2%98%85%E2%98%85/ FringeReview: https://fringereview.co.uk/review/edinburgh-fringe/2026/shakespeare-x-5/ britishtheatreguide: https://www.britishtheatreguide.info/reviews/shakespeare-x5-zoo-playground-25945 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48877 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48877 Wed, 02 Sep 2026 09:47:53 +0300 To mark September 22—Independence Day of the Republic of Bulgaria—a special gala concert will be held at the Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theater in Yerevan, bringing together the talents of Bulgaria and Armenia and highlighting the strength of cultural cooperation between the two friendly nations. The event is organized with the support of H.E. Nikola Nikolov, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, and Maestro Plamen Kartaloff, Manager of the Sofia Opera and Ballet. To mark September 22—Independence Day of the Republic of Bulgaria—a special gala concert will be held at the Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theater in Yerevan, bringing together the talents of Bulgaria and Armenia and highlighting the strength of cultural cooperation between the two friendly nations. The event is organized with the support of H.E. Nikola Nikolov, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, and Maestro Plamen Kartaloff, Manager of the Sofia Opera and Ballet. Soloists from the Sofia Opera and Ballet and the Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theater will take the stage together, presenting a specially curated program of famous arias from the global opera repertoire. The program will feature works by Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Richard Wagner, Charles Gounod, Georges Bizet, Camille Saint-Saëns, Francesco Cilea, Umberto Giordano, and other great composers. Bulgarian soloists: Gabriela Georgieva — spinto soprano Radostina Nikolaeva — dramatic soprano Martin Iliev — spinto tenor Ventseslav Anastasov — baritone Petar Buchkov — basso cantante The Bulgarian and Armenian soloists will take turns throughout the evening, transforming the concert into a celebration of opera and a symbol of friendship and creative partnership between Bulgaria and Armenia. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48869 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48869 Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:34:35 +0300 The Twelfth Conference of States Parties (CSP12) to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) was held in Geneva. The Twelfth Conference of States Parties (CSP12) to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) was held in Geneva. From 24 to 28 August 2026, representatives of the ATT States Parties, various international organizations and civil society discussed the implementation of international rules for a transparent and responsible trade in conventional arms, with the aim of preventing illicit trafficking and reducing armed conflicts and the human suffering caused by them. During the General Debate Ambassador Angel Bandjov, Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Head of the Bulgarian Delegation, made a statement on behalf of the Republic of Bulgaria. Ambassador Bandjov stressed that on a global scale, the ATT is the only legally binding document that establishes standards for the international trade in conventional arms. He pointed out that, during increasing geopolitical instability, the objectives and principles of the ATT are ever more important. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Republic of Bulgaria to the full and effective implementation of the Treaty. He also encouraged all States Parties to the ATT to adhere to the deadlines for national reporting and to pay their contributions on time and in full, in order to ensure the effective implementation of the treaty. On behalf of the Republic of Bulgaria, Ambassador Bandjov also called for the full universalization of the ATT, and in this context warmly welcomed Vanuatu and Ecuador for their recent accession to the Treaty. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48857 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48857 Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:38:23 +0300 The library of the Consulate General of Bulgaria in New York has received a copy of the new children’s book From Bulgaria with Love: The Tale of Little Sophia’s Big Adventure by Hayley Markoff Hinkle. Hayley was the first child from Sofia to be adopted by an American couple following the democratic changes in Eastern Europe—a historic milestone recognized through a special citation by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. The library of the Consulate General of Bulgaria in New York has received a copy of the new children’s book From Bulgaria with Love: The Tale of Little Sophia’s Big Adventure by Hayley Markoff Hinkle. Hayley was the first child from Sofia to be adopted by an American couple following the democratic changes in Eastern Europe—a historic milestone recognized through a special citation by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Inspired by the author’s personal story, the book offers an accessible and moving exploration of adoption, the search for belonging, and the love that connects people and families across oceans and borders. The publication also holds special significance for the Bulgarian community in Pittsburgh. Hayley Markoff Hinkle is the great-granddaughter of Lambe Markov, founder and first president of the Bulgarian Macedonian Beneficial Association, the organization from which today’s Bulgarian Macedonian National Educational & Cultural Center originated. The little Bulgarian girl was adopted by Ed and Marilyn Markoff in 1990. She moved with her new family to Pennsylvania but never lost her connection to Bulgaria. For many years, Hayley and her father, Ed Markoff, have served on the Board of the Bulgarian Macedonian National Educational & Cultural Center and have remained an integral part of our wonderful community in the Pittsburgh area. The book presentation and meet-and-greet with the author will take place in Pennsylvania: Thursday, September 106:00 p.m.Bulgarian Macedonian National Educational & Cultural Center 449 West 8th Avenue, West Homestead, PA Guests will have the opportunity to meet Hayley and have their copies signed.   https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48853 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48853 Thu, 27 Aug 2026 17:31:25 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Christo Polendakov held a meeting with Singapore’s candidate for election as a judge to the International Court of Justice for the term 2027-2036, Ambassador Rena Lee. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Christo Polendakov held a meeting with Singapore’s candidate for election as a judge to the International Court of Justice for the term 2027-2036, Ambassador Rena Lee. During the meeting, Ambassador Lee presented her candidacy and outlined her priorities, which include further strengthening the role of the International Court of Justice and ensuring the active participation of small states in international justice. The current challenges facing the International Court of Justice and possible measures to address them were discussed in the course of the conversation. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting and upholding international law and expressed support for the International Court of Justice as a key institution for maintaining global peace and security. The two sides emphasized the importance of the bilateral partnership between Bulgaria and Singapore and expressed their readiness to maintain active contacts and a constructive exchange on issues on the bilateral agenda.   https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48838 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48838 Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:30:15 +0300 On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Bulgaria joined Denmark, President of the Security Council, together with 50 UN Member States, in reaffirming unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Bulgaria joined Denmark, President of the Security Council, together with 50 UN Member States, in reaffirming unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We call for a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire and for a just and lasting peace in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48840 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48840 Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:45:46 +0300 The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Republic of Armenia is pleased to announce that the direct Sofia–Yerevan–Sofia flight route will resume on 7 November 2026. The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Republic of Armenia is pleased to announce that the direct Sofia–Yerevan–Sofia flight route will resume on 7 November 2026. The launch of the route is the result of the efforts of Ambassador Nikola Nikolov and the exceptional assistance of Captain Yanko Ivanov, representing GullivAir airline. The route creates new opportunities for direct contact between the citizens of Bulgaria and Armenia, as well as for the development of bilateral cooperation in the fields of business, culture, sport, tourism and a range of other initiatives and projects of mutual interest. Ambassador Nikolov expresses his sincere gratitude to the Bulgarian institutions for their understanding and support in revitalising bilateral relations with the Republic of Armenia. The resumption of the direct Sofia–Yerevan–Sofia air link is an important step towards deepening contacts between the two nations and opens up new opportunities for developing and building on bilateral dialogue. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48845 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48845 Fri, 21 Aug 2026 10:17:50 +0300 On 20 August, the Court of Appeal in Štip upheld the decision of the Basic Court in Kočani denying Iva Mihailova the opportunity to undergo the medical treatment she requires outside the Republic of North Macedonia. On 20 August, the Court of Appeal in Štip upheld the decision of the Basic Court in Kočani denying Iva Mihailova the opportunity to undergo the medical treatment she requires outside the Republic of North Macedonia. It is particularly concerning that, in reaching its decision, the Court evidently failed to give due consideration to the conclusions of the competent local health authority regarding the severity of Iva’s condition. Nor does it appear to have given due consideration to the treatment prescribed to her and the fact that this treatment cannot be provided in North Macedonia. The required medical intervention is not an optional treatment or a procedure undertaken at the patient’s request. Specialists in both Bulgaria and North Macedonia have determined that it constitutes a necessary part of the treatment of Iva’s serious condition. It should be carried out in order to prevent any further deterioration in the health of the young Macedonian Bulgarian, including the occurrence of irreversible consequences. Particularly difficult to comprehend is an inhumane approach whereby the need for treatment is called into question on the grounds that there is no evidence that the most severe possible consequences have already occurred. We recall that the very purpose of timely treatment is to prevent such consequences from occurring, rather than to wait until they materialise before a court can recognise the existence of a medical necessity. The continuing delay is all the more serious given the nature of Iva’s condition and the risk that, as time passes, the prospects of successful treatment and recovery may become increasingly limited. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already taken urgent measures within the scope of its competence to protect the rights of Iva Mihailova and will continue to make use of all available diplomatic and legal mechanisms with a view to ensuring that she is able to receive the necessary treatment in a timely manner. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48821 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48821 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:53:04 +0300 The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations participated in the Security Council’s open debate on the Council’s working methods and the implementation of Document S/2024/507. The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations participated in the Security Council’s open debate on the Council’s working methods and the implementation of Document S/2024/507. In her statement, Ambassador Karadjova underscored the need for greater inclusivity in the allocation of responsibilities, the timely appointment of Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the Council’s subsidiary bodies, and equitable access to documentation for the ten elected members. She also highlighted the importance of stronger engagement of civil society, including women briefers, in the Council’s deliberations, as well as the consistent implementation of the provisions of the UN Charter and the principles of international law. Ambassador Karadjova also addressed the need for clearer arrangements for the participation of States that are not members of the Security Council but are “specially affected” by the situation under consideration. Against the backdrop of the growing risk of regional spillover from conflicts, she stressed the importance of taking geographical proximity to an armed conflict into account when determining whether a State meets this threshold. Ambassador Karadjova further emphasized the importance of transparency in the process of selecting the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, recalling the central role of the General Assembly in appointing the Secretary-General upon the recommendation of the Security Council. "The working methods of the Security Council are not a technical matter. They are a political tool that has a direct bearing on the Council’s ability to fulfil its mandate and contribute to the maintenance of international peace and security,” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova stated. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48829 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48829 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 10:47:12 +0300 Today, 19 August 2026, a new Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry between the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Today, 19 August 2026, a new Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry between the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The document was initialed by Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Karen Ivanov, Vice-President of the Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in the presence of Nikola Nikolov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to Armenia, who was one of the initiators of the renewal of the document. The aim of the Memorandum of Understanding is to promote and strengthen economic, trade and investment relations between Bulgaria and Armenia by deepening cooperation between the two chambers and their representatives. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48844 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48844 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 10:16:41 +0300 In fulfilment of its obligations under the Electoral Code and with a view to ensuring the conduct of fair, free and democratic elections, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended invitations for international observation of the elections for President and Vice-President of the Republic of Bulgaria scheduled for 25 October 2026. In fulfilment of its obligations under the Electoral Code and with a view to ensuring the conduct of fair, free and democratic elections, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended invitations for international observation of the elections for President and Vice-President of the Republic of Bulgaria scheduled for 25 October 2026. Invitations have been extended to the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE PA), the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), as well as the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC). Should these organisations express an interest in observing the elections, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will propose to the Central Election Commission that their representatives be registered as international observers for the forthcoming elections. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48843 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48843 Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:15:05 +0300 Following the detection of heavy smoke in parts of the Sofia, Kyustendil and Pernik regions in Bulgaria, caused by forest fires in the Republic of Serbia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs took urgent action to establish the circumstances surrounding the situation. Following the detection of heavy smoke in parts of the Sofia, Kyustendil and Pernik regions in Bulgaria, caused by forest fires in the Republic of Serbia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs took urgent action to establish the circumstances surrounding the situation. The Bulgarian diplomatic missions in Belgrade and Niš are in constant contact with the competent Serbian authorities. Our Embassy in Belgrade has delivered a note verbale requesting information on the location of the fire in the cross-border area. Assistance in extinguishing the fire has also been offered. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will keep the public promptly informed of any developments in the situation. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48803 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48803 Sun, 16 Aug 2026 12:09:16 +0300 Bulgaria joined Denmark and 54 other countries in a stakeout at the United Nations marking five years since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. This grim anniversary is an opportunity to once again draw attention to the ongoing humanitarian and human rights crisis in the country, particularly the grave situation facing Afghan women and girls. Bulgaria joined Denmark and 54 other countries in a stakeout at the United Nations marking five years since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. This grim anniversary is an opportunity to once again draw attention to the ongoing humanitarian and human rights crisis in the country, particularly the grave situation facing Afghan women and girls. Human rights, including the rights of women and girls, continue to be severely restricted. This includes their access to education, fundamental freedoms and equal participation in public life. We all remain committed to promoting and protecting human rights, including the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan. International efforts to build a peaceful, stable and inclusive future for the people of Afghanistan must continue. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48819 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48819 Fri, 14 Aug 2026 17:24:31 +0300 Representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with Hristina Mihaylova, mother of Iva Mihaylova, following the latest refusal by the court in Kočani to allow the young woman to leave the Republic of North Macedonia in order to receive the treatment required for her serious neurological condition. Representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with Hristina Mihaylova, mother of Iva Mihaylova, following the latest refusal by the court in Kočani to allow the young woman to leave the Republic of North Macedonia in order to receive the treatment required for her serious neurological condition. Ms Mihaylova shared her concerns about the course of the court proceedings and, above all, her profound concern about her daughter’s physical and psychological condition. According to Ms Mihaylova, the lack of adequate medical care has already resulted in irreversible consequences for the young woman, while any further delay poses serious risks of further deterioration in her condition. Ms Mihaylova stated that she continues to rely on the support of the Bulgarian institutions in the hope that the appellate court will issue a favourable decision within the next few days, enabling her daughter to receive the necessary treatment. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave firm assurances that the Bulgarian state is using all available channels of communication with the Republic of North Macedonia to ensure that the clear humanitarian aspects of the case are duly taken into account and that Iva is able to receive the necessary treatment as soon as possible, giving her the best possible chance of recovery. The matter has been formally raised through diplomatic channels with the authorities of the Republic of North Macedonia, with a request for a timely resolution. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48794 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48794 Thu, 13 Aug 2026 15:27:49 +0300 Shortly before the U.S. Congress adjourned for its summer recess, Chargé d’Affaires Stefka Yovcheva received a special gift from Congressman Joe Wilson, founder and co-chair of the Bulgaria Caucus, and his team — an American flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2026, in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States and in appreciation for the Republic of Bulgaria’s partnership. Shortly before the U.S. Congress adjourned for its summer recess, Chargé d’Affaires Stefka Yovcheva received a special gift from Congressman Joe Wilson, founder and co-chair of the Bulgaria Caucus, and his team — an American flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2026, in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States and in appreciation for the Republic of Bulgaria’s partnership. Our sincere gratitude to Congressman Joe Wilson and his wonderful team for this meaningful gesture, for their excellent cooperation, enduring friendship, and steadfast support for Bulgaria over the years. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48818 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48818 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:22:00 +0300 Expanding Swiss investment in Bulgaria and strengthening partnerships in innovation and science were among the main topics discussed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova and the Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Bulgaria, Pierre Hagmann. The two also discussed opportunities for closer cooperation in high technology, artificial intelligence and innovative medicine. Expanding Swiss investment in Bulgaria and strengthening partnerships in innovation and science were among the main topics discussed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova and the Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Bulgaria, Pierre Hagmann. The two also discussed opportunities for closer cooperation in high technology, artificial intelligence and innovative medicine. Minister Petrova highlighted the considerable potential for further developing economic relations and technological cooperation between Bulgaria and Switzerland. The Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) was cited as a concrete example of successful Bulgarian-Swiss cooperation. The Institute was established in partnership with two of Switzerland’s leading technology universities, ETH Zurich and EPFL. “Digitalisation and artificial intelligence can contribute to the development of the public sector, the improvement of services and the building of more transparent institutions,” Minister Petrova said. Both sides expressed their readiness to deepen cooperation in science and innovative medicine. Another key topic of discussion was the implementation of the Bulgarian-Swiss Cooperation Programme. The Programme supports strategic reforms in Bulgaria and encompasses 11 programmes across five key areas, including healthcare and the social system, education, migration and security, and the environment and climate. Minister Petrova reaffirmed the Bulgarian Government’s commitment to accelerating the implementation of the projects. Ambassador Hagmann welcomed Bulgaria’s progress towards membership of the OECD and noted the opportunities for attracting further Swiss investment to the country. Relations between the European Union and Switzerland were also discussed. Minister Petrova expressed support for deepening the partnership, including in the areas of foreign policy, security and defence. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48817 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48817 Mon, 10 Aug 2026 17:19:44 +0300 Bulgaria and the countries of the Arab world are bound by a friendship based on trust, mutual respect and a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability. This was stated by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova at a meeting today with the ambassadors of Arab states accredited to the Republic of Bulgaria. Bulgaria and the countries of the Arab world are bound by a friendship based on trust, mutual respect and a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability. This was stated by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova at a meeting today with the ambassadors of Arab states accredited to the Republic of Bulgaria. Minister Petrova presented the diplomats with the Bulgarian Government’s priorities and strategic vision in the field of foreign policy. “One of our main objectives is to translate the established political dialogue into practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” the Foreign Minister emphasised. In this context, the participants discussed prospects for intensifying and deepening relations in areas such as trade and investment, innovation and digital technologies, among others. The discussion also focused on opportunities to develop sustainable energy, transport and digital links between Europe, the Middle East and the Gulf states. Minister Petrova stressed that, for Bulgaria, connectivity is a priority of strategic importance and an investment in the future. “With its geographical location and well-developed transport and energy infrastructure, our country has considerable practical potential to contribute to better connectivity between the two regions,” the Bulgarian Foreign Minister added. She noted that working to connect investment, markets and people was in the common interest. The talks also focused on the current situation in the Middle East and its implications for regional and global security. The discussion highlighted the key role of diplomacy, dialogue and respect for international law in achieving sustainable de-escalation and lasting peace. The issues discussed included the need to guarantee freedom and security of navigation along strategic maritime routes. Support for international diplomatic efforts to prevent the further spread of conflicts, as well as the need for an effective response to the grave humanitarian situation in some of the countries most severely affected in the region, were also among the key topics of the meeting.   https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48816 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48816 Mon, 10 Aug 2026 17:07:36 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova today held a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Ambassador of Ukraine to Bulgaria, following the incursion of a drone into Bulgarian airspace in the area of Kardam. Initial analysis indicates that the aircraft was most likely a Maya decoy drone of a type used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova today held a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Ambassador of Ukraine to Bulgaria, following the incursion of a drone into Bulgarian airspace in the area of Kardam. Initial analysis indicates that the aircraft was most likely a Maya decoy drone of a type used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. During the meeting, Minister Petrova expressed the Bulgarian side’s serious concern and emphasised that any unauthorised incursion into Bulgaria’s airspace is unacceptable. The Bulgarian side requested that Ukraine provide all available information that could contribute to fully clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident. Minister Petrova stated that it is of paramount importance to Bulgaria that the necessary measures be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The need for direct and effective channels of communication between the competent authorities of the two countries was also emphasised. For her part, the Ambassador expressed deep concern over the incident and stressed that Ukraine had not deliberately directed any unmanned aerial vehicles towards Bulgaria. She confirmed the Ukrainian side’s readiness to provide full assistance in establishing all the circumstances surrounding the incident. In connection with the drone incursion, Bulgaria is also maintaining contact with the Romanian side. Minister Velislava Petrova has also informed the Foreign Ministers of the European Union Member States of the incident and of the measures taken by Bulgaria. The latest information on the matter will also be exchanged among NATO Allies on Wednesday. Bulgaria will continue steadfastly to defend its sovereignty and the security of Bulgarian citizens. The country also remains consistent in its position that ending hostilities and achieving a just and lasting peace through diplomatic efforts are of key importance to security and stability in the region.