Bulgaria

Specialists from the United States have conducted an inspection of the repair work at Bulgaria's air base near Graf Ignatievo, according to information obtained by BNR. The visit, announced by Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov a week ago, aimed to certify the facilities and security systems crucial for the deployment of Bulgaria's new F-16 fighter jets.

Bulgaria's long-anticipated entry into the Eurozone may face a delay, as the country is unlikely to meet the inflation criterion required for the introduction of the euro on January 1, 2025. Dimitar Radev, the Governor of the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB), disclosed to BTA that a more plausible scenario for Bulgaria's integration into the Eurozone would be later in 2025.

In a bid to support its agricultural sector amidst the ongoing tensions stemming from Russia's war against Ukraine, Bulgaria announces a significant aid package for farmers. Close to 52,000 farmers are set to benefit from the allocation of BGN 300 million in State aid by May 15, 2024, citing his Union's press release issued on Thursday.

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.