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/ Sun, 07 Jun 2026 14:24:58 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48283 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48283 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:14:21 +0300 As part of the EU Delegation (EU Delegation) in Armenia’s “A Day with the Ambassador” initiative and the essays written on the development of relations between the EU and Armenia, Harutyun Gevorgyan spent a working day with the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Nikola Nikolov. As part of the EU Delegation (EU Delegation) in Armenia’s “A Day with the Ambassador” initiative and the essays written on the development of relations between the EU and Armenia, Harutyun Gevorgyan spent a working day with the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Nikola Nikolov. Harutyun Gevorgyan is a bright and ambitious young man from Kapan who is currently a student at the French University in Yerevan. He has been part of the “Young European Ambassador” program since November 2025. The initiative aims to provide young people with the opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the daily work of an ambassador and the challenges of the diplomatic profession. At the same time, it aims to foster interest in diplomacy and engage young people in this field, which plays a key role in today’s dynamic and rapidly changing world. I wish Harutyun Gevorgyan every success in the future and hope he continues to pursue his dreams with the same determination. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48238 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48238 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:32:52 +0300 Since its inaugural edition in 2013, held under the patronage of Ban Soon-taek, the International Bazaar has established itself as a valued annual tradition. The event has a charitable purpose. Since its inaugural edition in 2013, held under the patronage of Ban Soon-taek, the International Bazaar has established itself as a valued annual tradition. The event has a charitable purpose. This year, the proceeds raised will be donated to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) to support communities affected by humanitarian crises. Bulgaria is participating with a gift basket containing more than 30 products made in Bulgaria. “Bulgaria is a valued, predictable, and reliable partner within the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations. Today, we are participating in the United Nations International Bazaar to highlight the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding among nations, as well as to showcase Bulgaria’s rich culture and history. This event is a symbol of unity in diversity and of the ability of countries to come together in support of noble causes,” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova stated. Held over the course of a single day at the United Nations Headquarters, the Charity Bazaar brings together Permanent Missions to the United Nations, UN staff members, and the diplomatic community to share and experience the richness of cultures from around the world. This celebration of cultural diversity and global unity is organized by the United Nations Delegations Spouses Club (UNDSC) under the leadership of a rotating governing board composed of representatives of UN Member States. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48222 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48222 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:31:48 +0300 On 29 May 2026, Natalia Uzunova, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Kingdom of Belgium, together with the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Bulgaria for Flanders, Ms Ellen Jonckheere, met with the Mayor of Ghent, Mr Mathias De Clercq, at Ghent City Hall. On 29 May 2026, Natalia Uzunova, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Kingdom of Belgium, together with the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Bulgaria for Flanders, Ms Ellen Jonckheere, met with the Mayor of Ghent, Mr Mathias De Clercq, at Ghent City Hall. The meeting focused on opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between Bulgaria and the City of Ghent in the fields of innovation, high technology, education and research. Particular attention was paid to the potential for expanding cooperation with the University of Ghent. The role and contribution of the Bulgarian community in Ghent were also among the topics of discussion, along with potential opportunities for cultural exchanges. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48220 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48220 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:50:17 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova emphasized that, in a time of growing geopolitical tensions, protracted crises, and increasing polarization, strengthening the mediation role of the United Nations is not merely desirable, but necessary. She highlighted the importance of preventive diplomacy, early conflict prevention, and restoring confidence in the multilateral system as key prerequisites for achieving lasting peace. Bulgaria reaffirmed its strong support for mediation as one of the most effective tools for conflict prevention, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the building of sustainable peace during today’s General Assembly debate on mediation. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova emphasized that, in a time of growing geopolitical tensions, protracted crises, and increasing polarization, strengthening the mediation role of the United Nations is not merely desirable, but necessary. She highlighted the importance of preventive diplomacy, early conflict prevention, and restoring confidence in the multilateral system as key prerequisites for achieving lasting peace. Ambassador Karadjova expressed support for a stronger, better coordinated, and adequately resourced UN mediation architecture. She underscored the importance of close cooperation among the United Nations, regional and subregional organizations, and Member States engaged in mediation efforts. The cooperation between the United Nations, the European Union, and the African Union was highlighted as a valuable example of an effective partnership. In her statement, Ambassador Karadjova also noted Bulgaria’s consistent contribution to UN mediation and conflict-prevention efforts, including through voluntary financial contributions to the UN Mediation Trust Fund in support of the mediation and good offices activities of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs in the Western Balkans. Bulgaria continues to actively support the humanitarian-development-peace nexus through its assistance to UN initiatives in a number of crisis-affected regions. Particular emphasis was placed on the need for inclusive mediation processes. Bulgaria stressed that the meaningful participation of women and young people is essential for building durable and legitimate peace and reaffirmed its commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Ambassador Karadjova further emphasized that the UN80 Initiative provides a timely opportunity to strengthen mediation and preventive diplomacy as core functions of the United Nations and to adapt the Organization to contemporary global challenges. “Bulgaria will continue to support all efforts aimed at strengthening international peace and security through dialogue, diplomacy, and mediation, in full accordance with the Charter of the United Nations,” the Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN stated.   https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48215 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48215 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:24:39 +0300 Bulgaria joined Romania and 55 UN Member States at a UN Security Council stakeout condemning the latest Russian drone strike that violated Romanian airspace, injured civilians, and endangered regional security.  We reaffirm our solidarity with Romania, our support for upholding regional stability, international law and a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire leading to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48230 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48230 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:26:17 +0300 The Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Bulgaria Ms. Stefka Yovcheva had the pleasure of hosting Board members of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) for an engaging dinner discussion at the Embassy. The Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Bulgaria Ms. Stefka Yovcheva had the pleasure of hosting Board members of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) for an engaging dinner discussion at the Embassy. The evening featured a thoughtful exchange of views on the current developments in the Middle East, the global fight against antisemitism, the enduring strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the United States and the strong historical ties between Bulgaria and Israel, built on the legacy of the rescue of 48 000 Bulgarian Jews during WWII. The evening reaffirmed Bulgaria’s longstanding friendship with AJC and our country’s steadfast commitment to advancing tolerance, mutual respect and cooperation with partners and friends in challenging times. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our distinguished guests: Mr. Viktor Melamed, Director of the AJC Office in Bulgaria, Mr. Alek Oscar, President of the Organization of the Friends of Israel in Bulgaria (NEGEV) and Mr. Daniel Lorer, Former Member of the Bulgarian Parliament, for their insightful contribution and perspectives. The dinner was part of the agenda of the AJC Global Forum, which takes place in Washington, May 31 – June 2, 2026. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48203 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48203 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:04:52 +0300 Today, June 1, 2026, on the occasion of International Children’s Day, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Nikola Nikolov visited the 131st “Peio Yavorov” Primary School in Yerevan. During the visit, he was welcomed by the school administration and the teaching staff. Today, June 1, 2026, on the occasion of International Children’s Day, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Nikola Nikolov visited the 131st “Peio Yavorov” Primary School in Yerevan. During the visit, he was welcomed by the school administration and the teaching staff. The visit also took place in connection with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the students who contributed with their performances to the festive program for the successful celebration at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Armenia on May 24—the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. In his address to those present, Ambassador Nikolov expressed his gratitude to the school administration and teaching staff for their dedication and efforts in educating their students. He wished the children good health, happiness, great achievements, and the fulfillment of their dreams. On the occasion of International Children’s Day, a small reception was organized on behalf of Ambassador Nikolov for all those present. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48200 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48200 Sat, 30 May 2026 13:00:10 +0300 On 29 May 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague hosted a meeting and discussion with journalist, war correspondent, and author Georgi Milkov, organized jointly by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague and the Bulgarian Hub Eindhoven. On 29 May 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague hosted a meeting and discussion with journalist, war correspondent, and author Georgi Milkov, organized jointly by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague and the Bulgarian Hub Eindhoven. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, guests had the opportunity to meet one of Bulgaria’s most distinguished journalists and storytellers. Georgi Milkov shared how he began writing books and recounted fascinating stories from his travels across Europe and around the world, as well as from his work in conflict zones. With his characteristic sense of humor and engaging storytelling style, he took the audience on a journey through different countries, cultures, and human experiences. We thank Georgi Milkov for this inspiring meeting and all guests who joined us for this memorable and enriching evening. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48271 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48271 Fri, 29 May 2026 16:11:00 +0300 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, took part in the conference " The Defense and Democracy Dialogue: Why We Fight ", organized by the Center for the Study of Democracy in Sofia. Within the framework of the first panel on "Strengthening Security on NATO's Eastern Flank", she emphasized the importance of security in the Black Sea region and the need for enhanced allied cooperation within NATO. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, took part in the conference " The Defense and Democracy Dialogue: Why We Fight ", organized by the Center for the Study of Democracy in Sofia. Within the framework of the first panel on "Strengthening Security on NATO's Eastern Flank", she emphasized the importance of security in the Black Sea region and the need for enhanced allied cooperation within NATO. Minister Petrova noted that the security environment is becoming increasingly dynamic and complex, pointing out risks to critical infrastructure, increased military tension in the Black Sea region, and the growing importance of unmanned systems. She excelled that Bulgaria is actively working on the modernization of the armed forces, the development of defense infrastructure, and the strengthening of regional security. In her speech, Minister Petrova also highlighted Bulgaria's potential for developing innovation and dual-use technologies within NATO's DIANA ecosystem, emphasizing that innovation, research and development (R&D) are a key factor for building modern defense capabilities and a competitive economy. Our top diplomat also pointed out the benefits of NATO membership, which provides Bulgaria with access to shared capabilities, intelligence, joint planning, and political solidarity. Minister Petrova further noted that investments in defense are also investments in resilience, technological innovation, infrastructure modernization, and economic development. Prior to the start of the conference, Minister Petrova held a meeting with the National Security Advisor to the President of Romania, Marius-Gabriel Lazurca. During the meeting, prospects for deepening bilateral cooperation between Bulgaria and Romania in the field of security, defense, and connectivity in the Black Sea region were discussed. The Minister expressed Bulgaria's solidarity with Romania regarding the incident involving a Russian drone that affected Romanian territory. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48171 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48171 Fri, 29 May 2026 14:43:02 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s unwavering commitment to the UN Charter, international law, and effective multilateralism during today’s UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter and Strengthening the UN-Centered International System.” Bulgaria underscored the need for a stronger, more effective and reformed United Nations, capable of addressing today’s global challenges and ensuring the maintenance of international peace and security. In her statement, Ambassador Karadjova highlighted the importance of: upholding international law and human rights; strengthening cooperation between the Security Council and the General Assembly; advancing the implementation of the Veto Initiative; reinforcing mechanisms for prevention, mediation and early warning. Bulgaria remains committed to working with international partners in support of peace, security and the principles at the core of the United Nations.   https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48190 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48190 Fri, 29 May 2026 11:24:28 +0300 On May 23, 2026 a celebration was launched by the Bulgarian School "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Ottawa on the occasion of the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture and of Slavic Literature. The celebration was held in the Catholic School "St. George", where the Bulgarian classes are held on weekends. On May 23, 2026 a celebration was launched by the Bulgarian School "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Ottawa on the occasion of the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture and of Slavic Literature. The celebration was held in the Catholic School "St. George", where the Bulgarian classes are held on weekends. The celebration, which was attended by students, parents and guests, began with the performance of the Bulgarian national anthem. The students and guests were welcomed by Ms. Jeanne Ter-Stepanyan, director of a Catholic school, and Ms. Lyudmila Minkova, coordinator of the Foreign and Indigenous Languages ​​Program, which is the framework for the Bulgarian language training in Ottawa. Mrs. Vanina Zaharieva, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Capital Region Bulgarian Community and the Ottawa-Gatineau Foundation, extended congratulations on the holiday and announced that for a third consecutive year with his designated proclamation the Mayor of Ottawa has proclaimed May 24 as the Day of Bulgarian Cultural Heritage in the Canadian capital. The proclamation notes that May 24 is the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian alphabet created in the 9th century, of the education and the culture, and of Slavic literature. It is indicated that the Bulgarian presence in Canada dates back to the beginning of the 20th century and has contributed significantly to the development of Canadian society. The adopted document proclaims the celebration of the rich cultural heritage that our alphabet carries, as the original Cyrillic alphabet - a lasting and sustainable symbol of cultural and linguistic diversity. In addition, Mrs. Zaharieva presented a Certificate of Honor from the Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria to Ms. Daniela Yoveva, a teacher at the Bulgarian School "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Ottawa - for her contribution to the activities of the Bulgarian language teaching abroad, for her active work in support of the Bulgarian education, language and culture and for the promotion of the Bulgarian spirit abroad. On behalf of H. E. Plamen Georgiev, Ambassador of Bulgaria to Canada, and of the Bulgarian Embassy team the Consul to the Embassy in Ottawa Mrs. Elka Doncheva extended greetings to the students, teachers and parents on the occasion of May 24. The students from both classes of the school presented a musical and poetic program, including Bulgarian poems by Ivan Vazov, Vesa Paspaleeva and other authors, as well as traditional Bulgarian folklore dances. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48157 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48157 Fri, 29 May 2026 11:13:04 +0300 The Permanent Mission of Bulgaria to the United Nations hosted an informal event marking Bulgaria’s historic victory in the landmark 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. The Permanent Mission of Bulgaria to the United Nations hosted an informal event marking Bulgaria’s historic victory in the landmark 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. More than 150 diplomats from various UN Member States, UN officials, and representatives of the host country congratulated Bulgaria and DARA for the song “Bangaranga” and Bulgaria’s Eurovision victory. “Bulgaria showed Europe that dreams do come true, while ‘Bangaranga’ became a symbol for young people everywhere that no victory is impossible. I would like to invite all of you to visit Bulgaria next year, when our country will have the honor of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest. This victory will be a wonderful opportunity to discover the beauty of Bulgarian nature, talent, and culture,” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova said during the opening of the event. “Eurovision is a celebration of unity, culture, and music. Bulgaria will never forget 16 May 2026. With the unforgettable song ‘Bangaranga,’ the talented performer DARA united millions of people through music and demonstrated the strength of Bulgarian talent, creativity, and spirit,” Ambassador Karadjova emphasized.     https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48155 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48155 Fri, 29 May 2026 11:10:35 +0300  On May 27, 2026, the Consulate General in New York screened the documentary film „Those to whom much is given“ by director Nikolay Vasilev, exploring inspiring stories about students and brilliant Bulgarian scientists and technologists who are shaping  our future. They are all connected through their mentor, the legendary physics teacher Teodosiy Teodosiev.  On May 27, 2026, the Consulate General in New York screened the documentary film „Those to whom much is given“ by director Nikolay Vasilev, exploring inspiring stories about students and brilliant Bulgarian scientists and technologists who are shaping  our future. They are all connected through their mentor, the legendary physics teacher Teodosiy Teodosiev. The event was presented by Consul Daniela Sirakova, who introduced the documentary production team and noted the fact that this film is being aired on one of the brightest days of the year - right after the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, May 24. Days when we traditionally turn our attention to the letters, words and people who lead us forward. In this context, she pointed out that the Bulgarian spirit celebrates its triumphs not only in our country, but also throughout the world, and the fact that a few years ago, it seemed impossible, but today the Bulgarian language is officially recognized in a number of US states through the program “Seal of Biliteracy”. The movie turns the focus of the audience to a different category of people – „Those to whom much is given “, those who do not wait for a change, but create it with their mind, heart and work. Ms. Sirakova highlighted the fact that Teo does not just teach complex physics, but teaches morality, dignity and critical thinking, and that true enlightenment is not left in history, but is happening today. The film "Those to whom much is given" caused great excitement among the public, who had the opportunity to take part in a discussion with the director Nikolay Vassilev, and producers Poli Angelova and Nikolay Todorov. During the conversation, one of the guests made a suggestion that the film be broadcast and included in the curricula of Bulgarian schools, thus providing an inspiration for the younger generations. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48144 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48144 Thu, 28 May 2026 16:34:44 +0300 Bulgaria joined Ukraine, European Union Delegation to the UN and 48 UN Member States in a stakeout condemning Russia’s latest escalation of aggression against Ukraine and the intensified attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. On 23–24 May, Russia launched one of the largest aerial attacks against Ukraine since the start of the war, employing ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as hundreds of drones. Kyiv suffered one of the most devastating attacks recorded to date.  Bulgaria stands in solidarity with Ukraine and reiterates its support for international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of civilians. We call for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire, as well as urgent humanitarian measures, including: - the full exchange of prisoners of war - the release of all unlawfully detained persons - the safe return of all deported and forcibly transferred civilians, including thousands of Ukrainian children We welcome the continued efforts of the United States, European countries, and partners worldwide to help bring this war to an end. We remain united in support of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, in line with the UN Charter. #StandWithUkraine https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48270 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48270 Thu, 28 May 2026 16:06:23 +0300 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, is part of the official delegation within the framework of the visit of Prime Minister Rumen Radev to Brussels, Kingdom of Belgium. The visit is at the invitation of Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever. The Bulgarian delegation also includes Vice Premiers Aleksandar Pulev, Ivo Hristov, and Atanas Pekanov, as well as the Minister of Defense, Dimitar Stoyanov. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, is part of the official delegation within the framework of the visit of Prime Minister Rumen Radev to Brussels, Kingdom of Belgium. The visit is at the invitation of Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever. The Bulgarian delegation also includes Vice Premiers Aleksandar Pulev, Ivo Hristov, and Atanas Pekanov, as well as the Minister of Defense, Dimitar Stoyanov. Within the framework of the visit, Minister Velislava Petrova participated in talks with the Prime Minister of Belgium, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and with European Council President Antonio Costa. During the talks, our country emphasized its priorities related to a fair European budget, a full-fledged cohesion and agricultural policy, as well as the effective implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Plan. Emphasis was also placed on the Competitiveness Fund, so that it does not deepen economic disparities between member states. Investments, innovation, the rule of law, and Bulgaria's transition to an economy with high added value and high technologies were also among the highlights of the visit. The Bulgarian delegation also visited the Belgian high-tech center IMEC in the city of Leuven. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48269 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48269 Thu, 28 May 2026 16:02:13 +0300 The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ivanka Tasheva, took part in the informal meeting of foreign ministers of the EU member states in the "Gymnich" format, which took place in Limassol, Cyprus on May 27-28. The meeting began with an informal working dinner on May 27, with the participation of the foreign ministers of Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, and India, where views were exchanged on the geopolitical consequences of the war in Ukraine, the Gulf crisis, and the situation in the Middle East. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ivanka Tasheva, took part in the informal meeting of foreign ministers of the EU member states in the "Gymnich" format, which took place in Limassol, Cyprus on May 27-28. The meeting began with an informal working dinner on May 27, with the participation of the foreign ministers of Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, and India, where views were exchanged on the geopolitical consequences of the war in Ukraine, the Gulf crisis, and the situation in the Middle East. The following day, the foreign ministers continued the informal discussion with their colleagues from Saudi Arabia and India on the Gulf crisis, uniting around the need to continue targeted diplomatic efforts for its resolution. The participants in the meeting agreed on the opinion that it is important for freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to be restored as quickly as possible in line with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which will contribute to overcoming the negative consequences on the global economy. In this context, a change in the navigation regime and the introduction of transit fees would be completely unacceptable. During the second session, the ministers discussed the EU's common approach towards Russia to end the war in Ukraine and the need to effectively defend the Union's interests, including through eventual future engagement in peace negotiations. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48142 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48142 Wed, 27 May 2026 15:57:00 +0300 On 26 May, a reception was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Armenia to celebrate 24 May — the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. On 26 May, a reception was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Armenia to celebrate 24 May — the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. Representatives of Armenian state institutions, ambassadors of the EU, Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Romania, the Czech Republic and Serbia, the  Charge d'Affairs of the Embassy of Ukraine, representatives of the academic community and the media, as well as many friends of Bulgaria, attended the event. In his welcome address, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Nikola Nikolov emphasized that 24 May is a significant holiday not only for Bulgaria, but also for all nations that share the spiritual heritage of Slavic writing and culture. He noted that the work of Saints Cyril and Methodius serves as a bridge between nations, symbolizing knowledge, spirituality and mutual respect. Furthermore, Ambassador Nikolov pointed out that, now more than ever, it is culture, education and dialogue that unite us, reminding us of the value of the shared spiritual space. The event took place in a cheerful and festive atmosphere, partly thanks to the presence of students from the 131-st Peyo Yavorov Primary School in Yerevan, who performed the national anthems of the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of Armenia, as well as popular songs in Bulgarian and Armenian, and folk dances. The children's performance impressed the guests at the reception, and special credit for this goes to their instructors, who were awarded certificates of honour by Ambassador Nikolov. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48125 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48125 Wed, 27 May 2026 16:37:08 +0300 Ambassador Rumen Alexandrov represented Bulgaria at the VIII Intergovernmental Conference on the Accession of  Albania to the EU, held on 26 May in Brussels. Ambassador Rumen Alexandrov represented Bulgaria at the VIII Intergovernmental Conference on the Accession of  Albania to the EU, held on 26 May in Brussels. During the meeting, the fulfilment by Albania of the interim benchmarks under Cluster 1 “Fundamentals” was confirmed, and closing benchmarks were set for Chapter 23 “Judiciary and Fundamental Rights” and Chapter 24 “Justice, Freedom and Security”. This marked an important step on the country’s path towards membership in the European Union, as it opens the possibility for Albania to begin closing negotiating clusters. “We congratulate Albania on the progress achieved, as well as on its political determination and motivation to advance along the path of reforms, which ultimately benefit its citizens. We encourage Albania to pay particular attention to the protection of the rights of persons belonging to national minorities. Bulgaria remains fully committed to supporting Tirana’s efforts to join the European Union, based on the principle of own merits,” Ambassador Alexandrov stated. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48268 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48268 Wed, 27 May 2026 15:59:47 +0300 Minister Velislava Petrova was part of the official delegation within the framework of the visit of Prime Minister Rumen Radev to Paris, French Republic.The Bulgarian delegation also includes Vice Premiers Aleksandar Pulev, Ivo Hristov, and Atanas Pekanov, as well as the Minister of Defense, Dimitar Stoyanov. Minister Velislava Petrova was part of the official delegation within the framework of the visit of Prime Minister Rumen Radev to Paris, French Republic.The Bulgarian delegation also includes Vice Premiers Aleksandar Pulev, Ivo Hristov, and Atanas Pekanov, as well as the Minister of Defense, Dimitar Stoyanov. The Minister of Foreign Affairs participated in the meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. Within the framework of the conversation, topics from the sphere of bilateral cooperation and the European agenda were discussed. European security, diversification of energy supplies, and the development of nuclear energy as a strategic element of Europe's energy independence were also among the highlights of the meeting. Later that day, Prime Minister Rumen Radev and his delegation departed for Brussels, where meetings are scheduled with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa. https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48267 https://www.mfa.government.bg/en/news/48267 Wed, 27 May 2026 15:56:51 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism are taking joint actions to facilitate the receipt and processing of visa applications. For third-country citizens, the journey to Bulgaria begins at the consular office. Therefore, it is extremely important that Bulgarian consular offices and bureaus offer a high-quality, fast, and predictable service. This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hristo Polendakov, during a meeting today at the MFA with the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Georgi Todorov. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism are taking joint actions to facilitate the receipt and processing of visa applications. For third-country citizens, the journey to Bulgaria begins at the consular office. Therefore, it is extremely important that Bulgarian consular offices and bureaus offer a high-quality, fast, and predictable service. This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hristo Polendakov, during a meeting today at the MFA with the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Georgi Todorov. The meeting was held at the initiative of the Ministry of Tourism and aimed to discuss opportunities to overcome challenges related to the access of third-country tourists for Summer 2026 and to take long-term measures. The two ministries will launch a procedure to establish an interinstitutional coordination mechanism to create prerequisites for accelerating procedures to attract tourists and workers from markets outside the European Union. The goal is to form both short-term solutions for the active summer season and long-term measures for better coordination between institutions. Deputy Minister Polendakov emphasized that consular offices are working under serious pressure due to limited human resources and a growing number of applications. In his words, the task is clear - to accelerate procedures without compromising security. He also pointed out that it is important for our country to remain a stable, secure, and predictable destination both for tourists and for people coming to work in the sector. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Georgi Todorov, proposed that the Ministry of Tourism and the MFA co-chair the working group, with the participation of the State Agency for National Security (SANS), the Ministry of Interior – "Migration" Directorate, the Employment Agency, and the Ministry of Finance. The common goal is to support business, the economy, employment, and Bulgaria's image as a safe and attractive destination. "We are concerned about both tourists and workers for the sector from markets outside the EU. We need to see where the bottlenecks are and how we can overcome them," said Deputy Minister Todorov. On behalf of the MFA, it was also noted that last year over 180,000 visas were issued by consular offices, and the Bulgarian consular service operates with a limited staffing level. In most of our consular offices, the staff is limited to just one consul and a small number of technical employees, which makes processing difficult during periods of increased interest. The MFA has already taken steps to reinforce the staff of key consular offices, including those in Istanbul, Edirne, Ankara, and Bursa in Turkey, as well as in Cairo, Delhi, Tashkent, and Hanoi, for which funding for these new employees is expected to be approved. The goal is to restore the normal pace of work where the workload is highest. Additionally, the MFA will short-term deploy a total of 53 employees to secure the summer season of 2026 in the consular offices in Madrid, Munich, Berlin, London, Beijing, Riyadh, Athens, Baku, Amman, Ankara, Edirne, Istanbul, Brussels, Delhi, Belgrade, Dubai, Jakarta, Tashkent, Hanoi, Cairo, and Algiers. For the current summer season, 16 local individuals have already been hired on fixed-term contracts in our consular offices in Minsk, Astana, Moscow, Tashkent, Frankfurt, Valencia, and Tashkent.