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/ Wed, 07 Oct 2026 16:53:31 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49262 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49262 Tue, 06 Oct 2026 11:05:40 +0300 On 5 October 2026, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Hristo Dikanski held an introductory meeting with the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Sofia, Mr. Yosef Levy Sfari. On 5 October 2026, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Hristo Dikanski held an introductory meeting with the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Sofia, Mr. Yosef Levy Sfari. During the meeting, the interlocutors reaffirmed the strategic nature of cooperation between the Republic of Bulgaria and the State of Israel, as well as the two countries’ shared interest in further developing political dialogue and sectoral cooperation. They discussed key aspects of bilateral relations, including the level of economic cooperation and prospects for its further expansion, water resource management, and the development of the high-tech sector. They expressed readiness to continue efforts to maintain and further develop dialogue in areas of mutual interest. Deputy Minister Dikanski noted the upcoming anniversary of the 7 October 2023 terrorist attack by Hamas against Israel, expressing Bulgaria’s solidarity with the Israeli people and reaffirming Bulgaria’s firm support for Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law. The interlocutors also exchanged views on the current regional situation, including developments in Gaza and efforts to achieve a sustainable resolution to the conflict. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49264 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49264 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 19:44:04 +0300 The Embassy of Bulgaria participated in the University of Pretoria’s International Day on 2 October 2026, presenting a glimpse of Bulgaria’s rich cultural traditions and higher education opportunities. The Embassy of Bulgaria participated in the University of Pretoria’s International Day on 2 October 2026, presenting a glimpse of Bulgaria’s rich cultural traditions and higher education opportunities. Visitors had the chance to taste traditional Bulgarian banitsa, learn about Bulgaria’s world-renowned rose oil, and discover the advantages of pursuing higher education in Bulgaria. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49266 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49266 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 19:50:04 +0300 The Bulgarian community in the Chicago area marked the 80th anniversary of St. Sophia Bulgarian Orthodox Church in Des Plaines, Illinois, with a series of events held from September 17–24, 2026. Formally incorporated on March 1, 1946, St. Sophia has served for eight decades as a spiritual, cultural, and educational center for generations of Bulgarians in the Chicago area. The Bulgarian community in the Chicago area marked the 80th anniversary of St. Sophia Bulgarian Orthodox Church in Des Plaines, Illinois, with a series of events held from September 17–24, 2026. Formally incorporated on March 1, 1946, St. Sophia has served for eight decades as a spiritual, cultural, and educational center for generations of Bulgarians in the Chicago area. At the initiative of the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Chicago, the anniversary received special recognition from state and local institutions. On September 17, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker proclaimed the day “St. Sophia Bulgarian Orthodox Church Day” in the State of Illinois, recognizing the church’s contribution to preserving the Orthodox Christian faith, Bulgarian heritage, national consciousness, and traditions. The centerpiece of the anniversary celebrations was a charity festival on September 19, which brought together hundreds of members and friends of the Bulgarian community. At the invitation of Consul General Svetoslav Stankov, the official guests included Des Plaines Mayor Andrew Goczkowski and Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison. Through donations and volunteer efforts, approximately $25,000 was raised in support of the church. On September 24, the Cook County Board of Commissioners adopted a special resolution honoring St. Sophia on its 80th anniversary and recognizing its outstanding spiritual, educational, cultural, and community contributions. The resolution was sponsored by Commissioner Kevin Morrison and signed by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “The 80-year history of St. Sophia is the story of generations of Bulgarians who, through their own efforts, donations, and volunteer service, have preserved their faith, language, and national identity. The recognition by the State of Illinois, Cook County, and the City of Des Plaines is also recognition of the contribution of the entire Bulgarian community to the civic and cultural life of the Chicago area,” Consul General Svetoslav Stankov said. St. Sophia Bulgarian Sunday School, established in 1975, has also served the community for more than half a century, helping generations of Bulgarian-American children maintain a meaningful connection with the Bulgarian language, Orthodox faith, culture, and traditions. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49227 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49227 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 11:13:04 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova participated in the General Debate of the Third Committee of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, dedicated to the rights of children and the advancement of women. In her statement, Ambassador Karadjova underscored Bulgaria’s strong commitment to the protection of children’s rights and the advancement of gender equality, both at the national and international levels. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova participated in the General Debate of the Third Committee of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, dedicated to the rights of children and the advancement of women. In her statement, Ambassador Karadjova underscored Bulgaria’s strong commitment to the protection of children’s rights and the advancement of gender equality, both at the national and international levels. “Bulgaria continues to work to ensure that every child grows up in a safe and supportive environment, with access to quality healthcare, education and social services. As Co-Chair of the Group of Friends of Children and the SDGs, Bulgaria remains committed to keeping children’s rights high on the UN agenda,” Ambassador Karadjova stated. Bulgaria once again reaffirmed its support for Ukrainian children affected by Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine and called for the safe return of unlawfully deported and forcibly transferred Ukrainian children to their families and communities. Ambassador Karadjova stressed that the protection of children’s rights is intrinsically linked to the rights and empowerment of women and girls. Bulgaria reaffirmed its commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda, gender equality, the full and meaningful participation of women in decision-making, and the prevention of violence against women and girls. Bulgaria also welcomed the focus of the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) on strengthening access to justice for all women and girls. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49235 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49235 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 11:41:52 +0300 Ambassador Karadjova delivered a statement during the United Nations General Assembly debate on the use of the veto, focusing on the mandate of the Panel of Experts established pursuant to Security Council resolution 1929 in support of the Sanctions Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737. Ambassador Karadjova delivered a statement during the United Nations General Assembly debate on the use of the veto, focusing on the mandate of the Panel of Experts established pursuant to Security Council resolution 1929 in support of the Sanctions Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737. Ambassador Karadjova underscored the importance of effective, independent and fact-based monitoring and reporting on the implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions concerning sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear programme. Bulgaria expressed serious concern over the removal of the independent monitoring and reporting mechanism for sanctions violations, particularly in light of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) recent findings regarding the loss of continuity of knowledge concerning Iran’s nuclear material stocks and its enrichment capabilities. Bulgaria reaffirmed its firm position that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and called on Iran to fully comply with its legally binding obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49210 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49210 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 21:05:17 +0300 With an intensive programme of bilateral meetings, multilateral formats and public engagements, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova concluded her participation in the High-level Week of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During the visit, Bulgaria maintained a consistent focus on three interconnected priorities – security, strategic connectivity and the development of active political and economic partnerships. With an intensive programme of bilateral meetings, multilateral formats and public engagements, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova concluded her participation in the High-level Week of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During the visit, Bulgaria maintained a consistent focus on three interconnected priorities – security, strategic connectivity and the development of active political and economic partnerships. Minister Petrova held talks with representatives of countries from Europe, North and Latin America, the Black Sea region, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. “Foreign policy must deliver tangible results for Bulgaria. This means protecting our national interests, building sustainable partnerships and turning our country’s strategic location into a genuine advantage,” Minister Petrova said. Among the key topics discussed were strategic connectivity, European and transatlantic security, international law and the role of the United Nations, security in the Black Sea region, energy diversification, transport and economic corridors, regional cooperation, and opportunities to expand investment and trade relations. Particular emphasis was placed on preparations for the Regional Connectivity Summit in 2027, which Bulgaria will host. In her talks with partners from the Black Sea region, the Middle East and Asia, Minister Petrova discussed opportunities to develop more secure and diversified transport, energy and economic links between Europe and Asia. As part of her multilateral programme, Minister Petrova participated in meetings and events dedicated to global food security in the Black Sea region, refugee protection, regional cooperation and the role of women in international politics. Minister Petrova’s participation in New York reinforced Bulgaria’s active presence in international dialogue and the country’s efforts to translate its strategic location into concrete projects, investment and sustainable partnerships. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49209 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49209 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 21:02:48 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova continued her intensive programme in New York with bilateral meetings and participation in multilateral formats focused on security, regional cooperation and the development of political and economic partnerships. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova continued her intensive programme in New York with bilateral meetings and participation in multilateral formats focused on security, regional cooperation and the development of political and economic partnerships. Minister Petrova held talks with UK Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Stephen Doughty, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iraq Fuad Hussein, and Foreign Minister of Oman Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi. As part of her programme, she also held meetings with Botswana’s Minister of International Relations, Dr Phenyo Butale, and Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines Maria Theresa Lazaro. The discussions focused on the development of bilateral relations, international and regional security, economic cooperation, energy, connectivity and opportunities for more active political dialogue. During the meetings with the representatives of Iraq and Botswana, memoranda of understanding were signed, laying the groundwork for more structured and regular political dialogue and deeper bilateral cooperation. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49208 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49208 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 20:59:20 +0300 Regional cooperation, strategic connectivity and resilience in the Balkans were the focus of a series of meetings and multilateral formats attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Regional cooperation, strategic connectivity and resilience in the Balkans were the focus of a series of meetings and multilateral formats attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During a quadrilateral meeting of the Balkan EU Member States, Minister Petrova held talks with Romania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Oana-Silvia Țoiu, Greece’s Minister of Foreign Affairs George Gerapetritis, and Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman. The European agenda, EU enlargement and connectivity were among the main topics discussed. Minister Petrova also participated in a meeting held within the framework of the Central European Initiative and the South-East European Cooperation Process, dedicated to regional cooperation in a changing world and to achieving stability, resilience and sustainable growth through trust and tangible results. “The Balkans must shape their own future through strong partnerships, strategic connectivity and resilient societies,” Minister Petrova said. She emphasised that transport, energy and digital connectivity are key both to the region’s economic development and to its strategic resilience. “Europe has shown that borders can be turned into bridges. We must build such bridges in the Balkans as well – not simply as a vision for the future, but as a necessity today,” Minister Petrova stated. Bulgaria will continue to work towards regional cooperation that delivers tangible results for the region’s security, economic development and connectivity. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49155 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49155 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:46:34 +0300 On 25 September 2026, the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, Nikola Nikolov, held a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Mher Grigoryan. On 25 September 2026, the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, Nikola Nikolov, held a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Mher Grigoryan. During the meeting, attention was focused on deepening bilateral dialogue in various areas of mutual interest, including trade and economic relations, tourism and the high-tech sector. Emphasis was also placed on Bulgaria’s role in important regional connectivity projects. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49143 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49143 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 09:40:25 +0300 On September 19, the Bulgarian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, Ms. Natalia Uzunova, took part in the 103rd edition of celebrations of the Days of Wallonia (Les Fêtes de Wallonie), traditionally held in its capital—the city of Namur. On September 19, the Bulgarian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, Ms. Natalia Uzunova, took part in the 103rd edition of celebrations of the Days of Wallonia (Les Fêtes de Wallonie), traditionally held in its capital—the city of Namur. The official program included a reception hosted by the Prime Minister of Wallonia, a reception at the Walloon Parliament attended by the Governor of the Province of Namur, and a gala ceremony at the city’s Royal Theater. This year, His Majesty King Philippe honored the celebration. Among the official guests were the diplomatic corps, the federal and local administrations, and the business community.  Speeches were delivered by the Prime Minister of Wallonia, Mr. Adrien Dolimont, the President of the Walloon Parliament, Mr. Willy Borsus, and the Prime Minister of Flanders, Mr. Matthias Diependaele, who was the guest of honour at this year’s festival. The selection of Flanders as the guest of honour demonstrates the desire to strengthen relations and deepen cooperation between Belgium’s two largest regions—Flanders and Wallonia. Bulgaria’s participation in the celebrations is an expression of respect for Wallonia’s traditions and cultural heritage and provides a valuable opportunity to maintain and strengthen ties with Belgian institutions at the regional and federal levels, as well as to develop specific partnerships. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49141 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49141 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 09:36:48 +0300 The Bulgarian Ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg, Natalia Uzunova took part in two consecutive meetings of the Heads of Mission of the EU Member States, organized by the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU. On September 15, 2026, in Brussels, the European ambassadors held a working lunch with Jan Jambon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Belgium. On September 16, 2026, in Luxembourg, they held a working lunch with Gilles Roth, Minister of Finance of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The Bulgarian Ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg, Natalia Uzunova took part in two consecutive meetings of the Heads of Mission of the EU Member States, organized by the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU. On September 15, 2026, in Brussels, the European ambassadors held a working lunch with Jan Jambon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Belgium. On September 16, 2026, in Luxembourg, they held a working lunch with Gilles Roth, Minister of Finance of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The two meetings provided an opportunity for an insightful exchange of views on key issues on the European economic and financial agenda. The presentations and discussions focused on the ongoing negotiations on the next Multiannual Financial Framework. Other topics discussed included budgetary discipline, competitiveness, the Savings and Investment Union, as well as the challenges facing national budgets and the need to strike the right balance between fiscal sustainability, economic growth, and social cohesion. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49207 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49207 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 20:56:03 +0300 Strategic connectivity was among the key foreign policy priorities addressed during a series of meetings held by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Strategic connectivity was among the key foreign policy priorities addressed during a series of meetings held by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This foreign policy focus builds on Bulgaria’s ambition to play a more active role in advancing European connectivity. The Regional Connectivity Summit, which Bulgaria will host in 2027, provides an opportunity to place key infrastructure projects within a broader European framework and to translate the vision for connectivity into concrete projects, investment and partnerships. The development of transport, energy and economic links between Europe, the Black Sea region, the South Caucasus, the Middle East and Asia was at the heart of her discussions with representatives of Georgia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Iraq. Minister Petrova discussed opportunities to deepen connectivity with Georgia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Maka Botchorishvili and Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi. She also discussed the issue with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates; Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister of Oman; and Fuad Hussein, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iraq. “Bulgaria’s geographical location is a strategic advantage. It is time to translate this advantage into tangible transport, energy and economic links, investment and partnerships,” Minister Petrova said. According to Minister Petrova, changing global trade routes and intensifying geopolitical competition are making the diversification of transport and energy corridors increasingly important for Europe’s security, resilience and competitiveness. The discussions explored the potential for expanding economic ties and investment partnerships between Europe and the countries of the Middle East, as well as the role of the Black Sea region and the South Caucasus in the broader connectivity architecture between Europe and Asia. “Connectivity is not just about infrastructure. It is a matter of economic security, competitiveness and strategic resilience,” Minister Petrova emphasised. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49206 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49206 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 20:39:34 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova signed a report submitting a draft Council of Ministers decision proposing that the President of the Republic of Bulgaria issue a decree relieving Bulgaria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Arab Emirates from office. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova signed a report submitting a draft Council of Ministers decision proposing that the President of the Republic of Bulgaria issue a decree relieving Bulgaria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Arab Emirates from office. In this way, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has initiated the procedure provided for under the Constitution. Once the decision has been adopted by the Council of Ministers, the proposal will be forwarded to the President for the issuance of a decree. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49205 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49205 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 20:37:41 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polendakov held a meeting with H.E. Mr Arun Kumar Sahu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Bulgaria. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polendakov held a meeting with H.E. Mr Arun Kumar Sahu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Bulgaria. During the meeting, both sides highly praised the traditionally friendly relations between Bulgaria and India and the steadily growing bilateral cooperation. The two sides underlined the importance of active political dialogue and contacts at the highest and high levels for further deepening the partnership between the two countries. The topics discussed included opportunities to expand cooperation in areas with significant potential, including technology and innovation, investment, trade, science, education, artificial intelligence and the space sector. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49204 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49204 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 20:34:54 +0300 Bulgarian communities abroad are an integral part of Bulgaria and an important bridge between our country and the world. It is our duty to maintain continuous and meaningful ties with them and to listen to their needs. This was stated by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova during a meeting with representatives of the Bulgarian community in New York and the surrounding region. Bulgarian communities abroad are an integral part of Bulgaria and an important bridge between our country and the world. It is our duty to maintain continuous and meaningful ties with them and to listen to their needs. This was stated by Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova during a meeting with representatives of the Bulgarian community in New York and the surrounding region. President of the Republic of Bulgaria Iliana Iotova also attended the meeting, which took place at the Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria in New York. Together with representatives of the Bulgarian community, they marked Bulgaria’s recently celebrated Independence Day. Minister Petrova expressed her appreciation to Bulgarians in the United States for their efforts to promote their country’s good name. She reaffirmed that supporting Bulgarian nationals abroad remains an important priority for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussion focused on preserving Bulgarian identity, language and culture, maintaining the younger generations’ connection with Bulgaria, and engagement with Bulgarian institutions. The participants also discussed opportunities for greater involvement of Bulgarian nationals abroad in the country’s social and economic life. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49203 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49203 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:31:53 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in a series of multilateral formats and bilateral meetings during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in a series of multilateral formats and bilateral meetings during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Minister Petrova took part in the informal meeting of the foreign ministers of the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), dedicated to dialogue and cooperation between the two regions. She held talks with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih and participated in an event marking the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which Bulgaria co-sponsored. Velislava Petrova held bilateral meetings with Armenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzoyan and Kyrgyzstan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeenbek Kulubaev. The discussions focused on connectivity and the development of concrete partnerships. The meetings form part of Bulgaria’s efforts to deepen relations with the countries of the South Caucasus and Central Asia. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49202 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49202 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:29:01 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Brendan Hanrahan in New York. Minister Petrova emphasised the importance of a strong transatlantic bond and active political dialogue between Sofia and Washington amid growing geopolitical challenges. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Brendan Hanrahan in New York. Minister Petrova emphasised the importance of a strong transatlantic bond and active political dialogue between Sofia and Washington amid growing geopolitical challenges. The inclusion of Bulgaria in the US Visa Waiver Program was also among the topics discussed. Velislava Petrova noted that visa-free travel for Bulgarian citizens remains a priority and would reflect the strategic nature of relations between the two countries. The discussion also focused on bilateral relations, security in Europe and opportunities to deepen practical cooperation between Bulgaria and the United States. Minister Petrova and Brendan Hanrahan also exchanged views on current issues on the European and international agenda. The meeting took place as part of Minister Petrova’s participation in the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49201 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49201 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:26:33 +0300 At a briefing today, Radi Naydenov, Permanent Secretary and Chair of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Elections Working Group, together with the Working Group’s Deputy Chairs – Mr Georgi Georgiev, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Boryana Stoynova, Director of the Information and Communication Systems Directorate – provided an update on preparations for holding the forthcoming elections for President and Vice-President of the Republic of Bulgaria abroad on 25 October this year. At a briefing today, Radi Naydenov, Permanent Secretary and Chair of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Elections Working Group, together with the Working Group’s Deputy Chairs – Mr Georgi Georgiev, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Boryana Stoynova, Director of the Information and Communication Systems Directorate – provided an update on preparations for holding the forthcoming elections for President and Vice-President of the Republic of Bulgaria abroad on 25 October this year. Radi Naydenov noted that the countries in which the elections are held can broadly be divided into two groups. The first comprises countries where notification of the holding of elections is required, i.e. Bulgarian diplomatic and consular missions are required to inform the host country of the date on which Bulgarian citizens will vote. The second group comprises countries where prior authorisation is also required and the express consent of the host country must be obtained in order to establish section election commissions on its territory. Bulgaria’s diplomatic missions in these countries have already taken the necessary steps. Boryana Stoynova added that, by a decision of 3 September, the Central Election Commission (CEC) had designated the locations which, at this stage, meet the requirements for the establishment of polling stations. These include Bulgarian diplomatic missions abroad and locations in EU Member States where at least 100 voters have cast their ballots in elections held over the past five years. She emphasised that, under the provisions of the Electoral Code, polling stations in countries outside the European Union cannot be established automatically on this basis, but only where at least 40 applications have been submitted and upon a proposal by the heads of the diplomatic and consular missions. In this context, particular emphasis was placed on the possibility for Bulgarian citizens abroad to submit an electronic application to vote in advance through the official website of the CEC. The online application platform has been active for almost two weeks, and the deadline for submitting applications is 24:00 Bulgarian time on 29 September. As at 11:00 on 23 September, 18,430 electronic applications had been registered from Bulgarian citizens wishing to exercise their right to vote abroad. The largest number of applications had been submitted for Türkiye (7,198), followed by the United Kingdom (2,956), Germany (1,420), the United States (1,326) and Spain (727). To date, 40 paper applications have been submitted to Bulgarian diplomatic and consular missions for one polling station in Spain. Once the deadline for submitting applications has expired and the applications have been processed, the CEC will announce the final list of locations abroad where polling stations will be established. In this context, Permanent Secretary Radi Naydenov emphasised that, under the latest amendments to the Electoral Code, citizens who have not registered in advance must complete a declaration to participate in the elections in the presence of the members of the section election commission on election day. “In locations with larger numbers of voters, this will lead to delays and crowding. I would therefore like to call on our fellow Bulgarians abroad to take advantage of the opportunity to facilitate the voting process by submitting an electronic application in advance,” the Permanent Secretary said. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is developing a logistical plan for transporting election papers, materials and voting machines to polling stations abroad, including those in more distant destinations such as Australia, South Africa, Argentina, the United States and Canada, as well as in the event of a possible second round. https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49200 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49200 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:23:46 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva represented Bulgaria at the regular meeting of the General Affairs Council of the European Union, held today in Brussels. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva represented Bulgaria at the regular meeting of the General Affairs Council of the European Union, held today in Brussels. The ministers began their work with a policy debate on the proposal for the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034. “At a time when competitiveness and strategic autonomy are becoming increasingly important on the EU agenda, the future European budget must not depart from the policies and objectives enshrined in the Treaties. Cohesion, convergence and the Single Market remain fundamental pillars of the European project, and their role should not be weakened in the pursuit of new strategic objectives, given their key importance for sustainable development. Improving connectivity should also be among the key priorities,” Deputy Minister Tasheva said. The EU’s current long-term budget covers the 2021–2027 period. The Multiannual Financial Framework provides funding for the Union’s policies and priorities, including the green and digital transitions. The Council also discussed the draft agenda for the forthcoming regular meeting of the European Council in October. The topics include Ukraine, the Middle East, competitiveness, security and defence, the next Multiannual Financial Framework, migration, enlargement and reforms. “Bulgaria will continue to be a constructive partner, while at the same time upholding the need for a renewed, more strategic and focused European role in efforts to achieve peace. If we want the EU’s voice to be heard in shaping the post-war reality, we must also play an active role in the negotiation process,” Deputy Minister Tasheva emphasised. In her remarks, she also highlighted competitiveness as a key issue for the European Council. “A strong European industrial base is essential. We welcome measures to promote investment, innovation and technological capacity in strategic sectors, alongside efforts to reduce critical dependencies on raw materials, energy and key technologies. High energy prices continue to pose a serious challenge to European industry and households. Therefore, diversifying supplies, strengthening regional connectivity, increasing storage capacity and further integrating the energy market are of particular importance,” the Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs said.   https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49199 https://www.mfa.bg/en/news/49199 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:20:45 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova attended the opening of the General Debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York as part of Bulgaria’s official delegation. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova attended the opening of the General Debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York as part of Bulgaria’s official delegation. As part of her intensive programme, Minister Petrova held a series of bilateral meetings with partners from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. She held talks with the foreign ministers of Singapore, Vivian Balakrishnan, and Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov. Meetings were also held with the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. “Foreign policy has value when it creates tangible opportunities for the country – greater security, stronger economic ties and stronger international partnerships,” Minister Petrova emphasised during the discussions. The main topics included the development of bilateral relations, international security, trade and investment, energy and strategic connectivity. In the discussions with the foreign ministers of Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, particular emphasis was placed on strategic connectivity and the potential for stronger transport, energy and economic links between Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Preparations for the Regional Connectivity Summit, which Bulgaria will host in 2027, were also discussed. The forum will provide an opportunity to forge new partnerships and translate regional priorities into concrete projects and investment. The second day of Minister Petrova’s visit to New York also included a meeting with Alexander De Croo, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as well as participation in a high-level event dedicated to global food security in the Black Sea region.