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.bg/en/ Sun, 23 Aug 2026 06:49:37 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48821 https://www.mfa.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.bg/en/news/48803 https://www.mfa.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.bg/en/news/48819 https://www.mfa.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.bg/en/news/48794 https://www.mfa.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.bg/en/news/48818 https://www.mfa.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.bg/en/news/48817 https://www.mfa.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.bg/en/news/48816 https://www.mfa.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. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48772 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48772 Fri, 07 Aug 2026 13:31:40 +0300 The Consulate of Bulgaria in Edinburgh is pleased to share that the Bulgarian production "Shakespeare X 5" is part of the programme of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026—one of the world's best-known international performing arts festivals. The Consulate of Bulgaria in Edinburgh is pleased to share that the Bulgarian production "Shakespeare X 5" is part of the programme of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026—one of the world's best-known international performing arts festivals. We warmly invite members of the Bulgarian community, friends of Bulgaria and all theatre lovers in Edinburgh to experience "Shakespeare X 5", which premieres tomorrow, August 7th. This is a performance not to be missed, offering a fresh and exciting take on Shakespeare for Fringe audiences. Tickets: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/shakespeare-x-5 Presented by a talented Bulgarian creative team, the production has already attracted attention in festival publications for its original approach to Shakespeare and its contemporary theatrical language: https://broadwaybaby.com/shows/shakespeare-x-5/834182 The Consulate of Bulgaria in Edinburgh is proud to support initiatives that showcase Bulgarian talent on the international stage and wishes the cast and creative team every success! https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48750 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48750 Fri, 31 Jul 2026 18:10:23 +0300 The Consulate of Bulgaria in Edinburgh is pleased to share that the Bulgarian production "Shakespeare X 5" is part of the programme of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 – one of the world's best-known international performing arts stages. The Consulate of Bulgaria in Edinburgh is pleased to share that the Bulgarian production "Shakespeare X 5" is part of the programme of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 – one of the world's best-known international performing arts stages. We warmly invite members of the Bulgarian community, friends of Bulgaria and all theatre lovers in Edinburgh to experience "Shakespeare X 5". Tickets: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/shakespeare-x-5 Presented by a talented Bulgarian creative team, the production has already attracted attention in festival publications for its original approach to Shakespeare and its contemporary theatrical language: https://broadwaybaby.com/shows/shakespeare-x-5/834182 The Consulate of Bulgaria in Edinburgh is pleased to support initiatives such as this and to encourage the participation of Bulgarian artists on the international stage. We sincerely hope that the success of "Shakespeare X 5" will inspire even more talented Bulgarian artists to present their work at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and other international stages. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48761 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48761 Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:26:48 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova today held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Abbas Araghchi. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova today held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Abbas Araghchi. During the conversation, Minister Petrova underscored the importance that Bulgaria attaches to its well-established relations with Iran, built on mutual trust and many years of cooperation. The two ministers expressed their readiness to continue and further develop the bilateral dialogue between Bulgaria and Iran. With regard to the deployment of United States aerial refuelling aircraft, Minister Petrova stressed that it is categorically ruled out that any direct military operations related to the conflict in the Middle East would be conducted from Bulgarian territory. She further noted that the decision of the National Assembly is fully consistent with Bulgaria’s commitments under its strategic bilateral cooperation with the United States and was adopted in accordance with the Constitution and the applicable Bulgarian legislation following an official request from the US side. She emphasised that this in no way represents a change in Bulgaria’s approach towards Iran. Minister Petrova reiterated that Bulgaria consistently calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of negotiations on a ceasefire that would create the conditions for reaching a sustainable agreement and achieving a lasting end to the conflict. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48762 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48762 Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:30:53 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova today met at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the 19th graduating class “Dr Georgi Valkovich” of the Diplomatic Institute, whose members have recently been awarded the diplomatic rank of Attaché and appointed to their first diplomatic postings. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova today met at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the 19th graduating class “Dr Georgi Valkovich” of the Diplomatic Institute, whose members have recently been awarded the diplomatic rank of Attaché and appointed to their first diplomatic postings. “Be bold, be confident and always stand up for Bulgaria’s interests, wherever your professional journey may take you,” Minister Petrova told the young diplomats. She noted that diplomacy requires strategic thinking and the ability to make decisions in a complex and rapidly evolving international environment. Minister Petrova emphasised that the Ministry’s most valuable asset is its people. She identified the professional development of diplomatic staff, fair remuneration and the creation of opportunities for career advancement as key priorities. During the meeting, the participants discussed the young diplomats' first professional challenges, their work across the Ministry’s various directorates, and the career opportunities available within the diplomatic service. Minister Petrova encouraged them to demonstrate initiative, put forward new ideas and solutions, and confidently defend their views with well-reasoned arguments.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48741 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48741 Wed, 29 Jul 2026 11:43:41 +0300 Bulgaria successfully concluded, together with Iraq, its role as co-facilitator of the intergovernmental negotiations on the resolution concerning the modalities for the Intergovernmental Review of the implementation of the Buenos Aires outcome document of the Second High-level United Nations Conference on South-South Cooperation (BAPA+40), following the adoption of the resolution by the General Assembly. Bulgaria successfully concluded, together with Iraq, its role as co-facilitator of the intergovernmental negotiations on the resolution concerning the modalities for the Intergovernmental Review of the implementation of the Buenos Aires outcome document of the Second High-level United Nations Conference on South-South Cooperation (BAPA+40), following the adoption of the resolution by the General Assembly. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova participated in a gathering hosted by the President of the General Assembly of the United Nations in honour of the co-chairs of the intergovernmental processes during the 80th session of the General Assembly, held under the motto “Better Together”. Bulgaria expresses its gratitude to all Member States for their constructive engagement and commitment throughout the negotiations and highly values the excellent cooperation with Iraq in successfully steering this process. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48743 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48743 Wed, 29 Jul 2026 11:49:35 +0300 During the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s consistent commitment to peace, security and diplomacy. During the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s consistent commitment to peace, security and diplomacy. Ambassador Karadjova underlined the need for sustained international efforts to address the multiple challenges facing the region. Bulgaria expressed its strong support for the efforts of High Representative Nikolay Mladenov and the Board of Peace in implementing the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict and Security Council resolution 2803. The statement welcomed the work of the relevant mechanism in supporting the implementation of the ceasefire arrangements, promoting effective governance, advancing the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza, and coordinating international efforts in support of the Comprehensive Plan. It was emphasized that the successful implementation of these efforts is essential to translating political commitments into tangible results on the ground. Ambassador Karadjova stressed the urgent need for immediate, safe and unimpeded humanitarian assistance to reach the population of Gaza at the required scale. Bulgaria reaffirmed its support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the two-State solution, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security within secure and internationally recognized borders. The statement underscored the need for the permanent disarmament of Hamas and all other non-State armed groups, and reaffirmed that Hamas cannot be part of the future governance of Gaza. Bulgaria stressed the importance of creating conditions for security, stability and effective governance that would enable the sustainable recovery of Gaza and contribute to lasting peace. Bulgaria expressed serious concern over the deteriorating situation in the West Bank, including increasing settler violence and settlement activities, which undermine prospects for achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace based on the two-State solution. With regard to Lebanon, Bulgaria welcomed the Trilateral Framework Agreement between Lebanon, Israel and the United States as an important step towards de-escalation, strengthening Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and advancing regional security. Bulgaria stressed the importance of the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701, including the need for all non-State armed groups, in particular Hezbollah, to be disarmed and for state authority to be established throughout the entire territory of Lebanon. Bulgaria reaffirmed its support for the efforts of the Lebanese authorities to strengthen state institutions and extend state control across the country. With regard to Syria, Bulgaria reaffirmed its support for a peaceful, inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition based on respect for human rights, as well as for the country’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. Addressing Iran, Ambassador Karadjova expressed hope that the cessation of military strikes would create an opportunity for the resumption of diplomatic dialogue and for reaching a negotiated solution to the outstanding issues related to Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Bulgaria also emphasized the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and other key maritime routes in the region, in accordance with international law, while condemning actions that threaten regional stability and international security. Bulgaria remains firmly committed to upholding international law, supporting multilateral diplomacy and working with international partners to advance lasting peace, security and stability in the Middle East. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48759 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48759 Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:16:54 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva today held bilateral political consultations in Sofia with Fernando Sampedro, Secretary of State for the European Union at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Spain. The discussions focused on prospects for the further development of bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Spain, as well as key issues on the European agenda. Deputy Minister Tasheva expressed Bulgaria’s appreciation for Spain's consistent support for the country's accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which remains one of Bulgaria's foreign policy priorities. The two sides also highlighted the potential for expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation in sectors such as energy, high technology, artificial intelligence, security and defence. The consultations also covered the European Union enlargement process, including the progress made by Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans. Deputy Minister Tasheva underscored the importance of preserving the principle of own merits and the established EU enlargement methodology as the basis for maintaining the credibility of the accession process. Deputy Minister Tasheva reaffirmed Bulgaria’s position regarding the European perspective of the Republic of North Macedonia and the need for the country to fulfil its commitments under the July 2022 European Consensus. As members of the Friends of Cohesion group within the European Union, Bulgaria and Spain also exchanged views on the EU Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028 – 2034. They further discussed measures aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the European Union. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48713 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48713 Tue, 28 Jul 2026 13:51:53 +0300 On July 24, 2026, Consul General Vladislav Spasov was received for a farewell meeting by Ms. Fang Xiao, Deputy Director-General of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal Government. On July 24, 2026, Consul General Vladislav Spasov was received for a farewell meeting by Ms. Fang Xiao, Deputy Director-General of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal Government. The two sides reviewed the fruitful cooperation and some of the more significant events in Bulgaria’s relations with Shanghai during the Consul General’s term of office (April 2021 - July 2026), including: the bilateral high-level visits that took place, Bulgaria’s participation in the annual China International Import Expo (CIIE), the operation of the Sino-Bulgarian Joint Lab of Climate Change Adaptive Governance for Rural Ecosystem (2022-2025), the photo exhibition organized by the Consulate General in October 2024 on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the People’s Republic of China, the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Sofia and Shanghai (June 2, 2026), and others. Both sides reconfirmed their mutual interest in the further development of trade and economic ties and investment in high-value-added industries, as well as the expansion of academic exchanges between leading research institutes of Bulgaria and Shanghai. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48706 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48706 Tue, 28 Jul 2026 12:46:26 +0300 On the eve of Throne Day, the national holiday of the Kingdom of Morocco, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco, Nasser Bourita, reaffirming the friendly relations between the two countries.  On the eve of Throne Day, the national holiday of the Kingdom of Morocco, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco, Nasser Bourita, reaffirming the friendly relations between the two countries.  During the conversation, the two Ministers highly valued the traditionally friendly relations and constructive cooperation between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Kingdom of Morocco and expressed their shared determination to further deepen them. “Bulgaria attaches great importance to its relations with the Kingdom of Morocco, which we regard as an important, stable and reliable partner in North Africa and in the European Union’s Southern Neighbourhood,” Minister Petrova emphasised. The two Ministers agreed on the importance of restoring an active high-level political dialogue and promoting an exchange of visits as a means of giving new impetus to bilateral relations. They discussed opportunities to build on the achievements of the Joint Declaration signed in Rabat in January 2024, as well as to expand economic and sectoral cooperation and strengthen coordination within international organisations. The significant untapped potential for developing practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest was also highlighted, including security, trade, investment, education and culture, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, tourism, infrastructure, renewable energy and information technologies. The conversation also covered current regional and international issues, including the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East. Regarding Western Sahara, a topic brought into focus during the conversation by the Moroccan side, Minister Petrova stressed that Bulgaria welcomes the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025) and reaffirms that it considers the Autonomy Proposal presented by Morocco in 2007 as the serious, credible and realistic basis for achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. In the context of the adopted Resolution 2797 (2025), Bulgaria recognizes that genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could represent a most feasible solution to the dispute. The two sides also reaffirmed their support for the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, as well as for the efforts to advance the political process and achieve a final and mutually acceptable political solution. Ministers Petrova and Bourita expressed their readiness to maintain direct dialogue and work towards intensifying political contacts and exchanges of visits, with a view to translating the positive momentum in bilateral relations into concrete and mutually beneficial results.     https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48758 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48758 Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:13:46 +0300 On 27 July 2026, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva received copies of the Letters of Credence of the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to the Republic of Bulgaria, resident in Warsaw, H.E. Mr Raimonds Jansons. On 27 July 2026, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva received copies of the Letters of Credence of the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to the Republic of Bulgaria, resident in Warsaw, H.E. Mr Raimonds Jansons. During the meeting, Deputy Minister Tasheva and Ambassador Jansons reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the constructive cooperation between the two countries, both bilaterally and within the frameworks of the European Union, NATO and international organisations. They also expressed their common intention to intensify the bilateral political dialogue and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including tourism, energy, artificial intelligence and cooperation between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The discussions also covered current issues on the European Union's agenda, including security, support for Ukraine, particularly with regard to assistance provided to Ukrainian refugees in both countries, among other issues. The meeting also addressed cooperation between Bulgaria and Latvia within the framework of the United Nations, including Latvia's election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48757 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48757 Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:08:30 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Bulgaria, Viktor Temirbayev, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 27 July, at the initiative of the Kazakh side. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Bulgaria, Viktor Temirbayev, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 27 July, at the initiative of the Kazakh side. During the meeting, the two sides discussed current issues on the bilateral agenda, cooperation between the European Union and Kazakhstan, as well as matters related to energy security and connectivity between Europe and Central Asia. They reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening political dialogue and expanding bilateral cooperation in the fields of energy, transport, connectivity, digitalisation and artificial intelligence. Ambassador Temirbayev placed particular emphasis on the security of energy infrastructure in the Black Sea region and outlined Kazakhstan's position regarding the recent incidents resulting from the ongoing military hostilities in Ukraine, which disrupted operations at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) marine terminal near Novorossiysk. The terminal handles the final loading of tankers carrying the majority of Kazakhstan's crude oil exports destined for Europe and other international markets. Deputy Minister Tasheva stressed that energy security and the diversification of energy supplies remain among Bulgaria's key priorities. She noted that the reliable operation of international energy and transport infrastructure, together with ensuring the security of maritime navigation and commercial shipping routes in the Black Sea, is essential for economic stability and for strengthening connectivity between Europe and Central Asia. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48756 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48756 Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:05:38 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva met with the Ambassador of the State of Israel to the Republic of Bulgaria, Yoseph Levi Sfari, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 24 July. During the meeting, both sides highly praised the traditionally friendly relations between Bulgaria and Israel and reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining an open political dialogue. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva met with the Ambassador of the State of Israel to the Republic of Bulgaria, Yoseph Levi Sfari, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 24 July. During the meeting, both sides highly praised the traditionally friendly relations between Bulgaria and Israel and reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining an open political dialogue.  Current international issues were discussed, including the escalation in the Middle East, with Ambassador Sfari presenting Israel's positions. The Bulgarian side expressed its understanding of the security challenges facing Israel. Deputy Minister Tasheva unequivocally condemned all forms of terrorism and attacks against civilians. She stressed the need to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as well as the crucial importance of the complete disarmament of Hamas and preventing the organisation from playing any role in the governance of Gaza. The parties also welcomed the Framework Agreement concluded between Israel and Lebanon through the mediation of the United States. Deputy Minister Tasheva highlighted the adverse impact of tensions in the Middle East on regional security and the global economy and underscored the need to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz without the imposition of fees or restrictions. The Bulgarian side also expressed hope that diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation would resume and lead to a sustainable agreement contributing to security and stability in the region.     https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48695 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/48695 Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:10:50 +0300 The Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, participated in the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “Peaceful Settlement of Disputes”, held under the agenda item “Maintenance of International Peace and Security.” The Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, participated in the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “Peaceful Settlement of Disputes”, held under the agenda item “Maintenance of International Peace and Security.” In her national statement, Ambassador Karadjova underscored that the peaceful settlement of disputes, as enshrined in the UN Charter, remains a fundamental principle for the maintenance of international peace and security. She welcomed the unanimous adoption of Security Council Resolution 2788 one year ago, which reaffirmed the commitment of all Member States to employ the peaceful means of dispute settlement set out in Article 33 of the Charter and reinforced the Security Council’s role in the prevention and de-escalation of conflicts. Ambassador Karadjova emphasized that trust, multilateral cooperation, and full respect for international law are indispensable prerequisites for sustainable peace. She stressed that, in a time of growing geopolitical tensions, the international community must uphold the consistent and non-selective application of the UN Charter, while placing diplomacy and dialogue at the heart of efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts. With regard to ongoing conflicts around the world, Bulgaria reaffirmed the need for intensified diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. Ambassador Karadjova also underscored the important role of the UN Secretary-General’s mediation and good offices as effective tools for the peaceful settlement of disputes. In conclusion, Ambassador Karadjova stated that Security Council Resolution 2788 represents an important contribution to strengthening the international legal order and reaffirms the shared responsibility of all Member States to maintain dialogue, seek common ground, and make full use of peaceful means to prevent and resolve conflicts.