Bulgaria

Amidst mounting concerns over Bulgaria's delayed second payment under the Recovery and Resilience Plan, former Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov has squarely pointed the finger at the GERB party, alleging their obstructionism in advancing key legislation necessary for unlocking crucial funds.

Concerns are mounting within the European Parliament regarding potential Russian interference in the forthcoming parliamentary elections, coupled with apprehensions surrounding Russian-owned properties in Bulgaria.

President Rumen Radev, along with experts in winter sports and infrastructure development, has spearheaded discussions on Bulgaria's potential bid to host the 2028 Winter Youth Olympic Games.

Bulgaria stands to lose approximately BGN 1 billion each year due to its continued exclusion from full membership in the Schengen area, Economy Minister Petko Nikolov cautioned. Speaking at the Vienna Economic Forum alongside representatives from prominent international companies, Nikolov emphasized the urgent need for Bulgaria's accession to Schengen.

Acting Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev and former Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel have reiterated Bulgaria's commitment to stability in the region and support for Ukraine. Their remarks came in separate statements addressed to participants of the Vienna Economic Forum - Sofia Meeting 2024.

The Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (BSMEPA), together with the Bulgarian-Ukrainian Chamber of Industry and the support of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, organize a Bulgarian-Ukrainian business forum with bilateral meetings, which will be held on April 25, 2024 in "Vasil Levski" hall of the "Hyatt Regency Sofia" hotel in Sofia.

A recent survey conducted by the Market Links agency, commissioned by bTV, offers insights into the prevailing sentiments toward Bulgaria's political landscape. Findings reveal widespread disappointment and anger among respondents, with 48% feeling disappointed and 18% expressing anger.

In Bulgaria, a stark reality persists regarding domestic violence, as highlighted by Assoc. Dr. Aleksey Pamporov from the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.

As the May holidays mark the onset of sea tourism, Bulgarians and foreigners preparing for their annual getaways are facing a stark reality: trips this year will come with a heftier price tag, with expenses expected to surge by 10-15% compared to last year.

The Bulgarian National Assembly has unanimously voted in favor of a 30% salary increase for military personnel. The decision, backed by a resounding 195 votes, marks a significant milestone in prioritizing the welfare of the armed forces.