Latest News from Bulgaria
Kristalina Georgieva: Bulgaria Still Has a Path to Eurozone Entry in 2025
Bulgaria still has a chance to join the Eurozone next year, according to Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund. In her first television interview since the start of her second term, Georgieva told BNT that the country needs to address inflation by the end of the year, which remains the only unmet criterion for adopting the euro.
Concerns for Tomorrow: Young Bulgarians Cite Financial Worries as Top Fear
Young people in Bulgaria are expressing significant concerns about their financial futures, according to alarming new data. The first of its kind study, commissioned by the Association "Network for the Development of Personality and Talents" and conducted by the Trend research center, surveyed individuals aged 15 to 29, including students and those already in the workforce.
Residents of Sofia to Face Higher Water Costs Following Recent Decision
The Energy and Water Regulation Commission (EWRC) of Bulgaria has approved the business plan for Sofia's water and sanitation operator for the 2022-2026 period during a closed meeting, reports BNR. As a result, the price of water for domestic users of "Sofiyska Voda" will rise to 3.52 leva per cubic meter, including VAT, effective October 1, according to the EWRC press center.
October Natural Gas Prices Announced in Bulgaria, Slight Increase Observed
Bulgaria's Energy and Water Regulation Commission (EWRC) has announced that the price of natural gas for October will be set at 63.72 leva per MWh, excluding access, transmission, excise, and VAT charges. This price will apply to "Bulgargaz" EAD, which supplies natural gas to final suppliers and licensed thermal energy producers.
Bulgaria Welcomes John Malkovich: "Arms and the Man" Opens at the National Theater
John Malkovich has begun rehearsals for the production of "Arms and the Man," set to premiere at Sofia's National Theater on November 7, 8, and 9. Tickets for the performances are now available, priced between 25 leva and 100 leva. Attendees can secure their seats through the theater's official website.
Sofia Pride Urges Political Candidates to Support LGBTIQ+ Rights in Bulgaria
Sofia Pride is urging candidates from political parties to endorse their pre-election declaration aimed at safeguarding equality for LGBTIQ+ individuals in Bulgaria. The organizers of the country's largest human rights event are calling for candidates to sign the declaration, which commits them to advocate for the rights and visibility of LGBTIQ+ people in the 51st National Assembly.
Ongoing Efforts to Secure Release of Bulgarian Sailors Held by Houthi Forces
Acting Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev reported that the ship "Galaxy Leader," which is currently held by Houthi forces with Bulgarian sailors onboard, was not harmed during the recent Israeli attack on the Hodeidah port. Glavchev confirmed that negotiations are ongoing for the release of the sailors, stating, "The Houthis are sensitive.
Will Austria's Freedom Party Block Bulgaria and Romania from Joining Schengen?
Since late 2022, Bulgaria and Romania have been primarily focused on Austria regarding their inclusion in the Schengen Agreement. This agreement, initiated in 1985, allows for border-free travel across Europe. However, Austria's unexpected veto halted the EU's plan to incorporate both countries into the Schengen zone.
Low Altitude Before Ascent Likely Cause of L-39 Crash, Initial Data Shows
The black box from the crashed L-39 "Albatros" has been successfully read, with the data sent to the aircraft's manufacturer in the Czech Republic for analysis. Initial findings suggest that the likely cause of the crash was a flight at an extremely low altitude prior to a vertical ascent, as reported by BNT.