Velislava Petrova: Supporting Bulgarian Communities Abroad Is a Government Priority
05 November 2026 News
The Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted the importance of joint efforts to preserve Bulgaria’s historical memory and cultural identity and protect the rights of our compatriots
Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the Third Scientific Conference "The Western Bulgarian Outlands – History and Prospects", which was held in Sofia. In her address, she emphasized the commitment of the Bulgarian state to our compatriots in the Republic of Serbia and its support for preserving their cultural and national identity.
“Preserving the traditions and well-being of the Bulgarian national minority in Serbia, as well as in all other countries where we have such communities, is an absolute priority for our government,” Minister Petrova stated.
She stressed the need for closer cooperation between state institutions, academic circles and representatives of the Bulgarian community in order to overcome the existing challenges. In this context, Velislava Petrova reaffirmed the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the restoration and development of the activities of the Western Outlands Research Institute.
Minister Petrova highlighted the contribution of scientific initiatives to the research and promotion of the historical and cultural heritage of Bulgarians in the region. She cited the publication of the first volume of the collection “The Western Bulgarian Outlands – History and Prospects" in March 2026, as a positive example.
"On the part of the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you have our full support. We must work together to overcome the obstacles Bulgarians face there, as well as all those who are working to preserve Bulgarian historical memory,” Minister Velislava Petrova said in conclusion.
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