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://mfa.bg/en/ Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:16:20 +0300 en hourly 1 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49315 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49315 Fri, 09 Oct 2026 19:33:36 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova delivered Bulgaria’s statement during the debate of the Sixth Committee of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly on the topic “The Rule of Law at the National and International Levels.” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova delivered Bulgaria’s statement during the debate of the Sixth Committee of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly on the topic “The Rule of Law at the National and International Levels.” Ambassador Karadjova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law as a fundamental principle of democratic societies and as a pillar of a peaceful, just and rules-based international order. The statement underscored Bulgaria’s strong support for the United Nations, the International Court of Justice and the International Law Commission, as well as for international cooperation aimed at strengthening accountability, advancing justice, and promoting the progressive development and codification of international law. Bulgaria also welcomed the enhanced cooperation between the Sixth Committee and the International Law Commission, including efforts to address important legal gaps and to develop legally binding instruments concerning crimes against humanity and the protection of persons in the event of disasters.  “Bulgaria stands ready to contribute constructively to collective efforts to strengthen the rule of law at both the national and international levels,” Ambassador Karadjova stated.   https://mfa.bg/en/news/49291 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49291 Fri, 09 Oct 2026 09:59:14 +0300 The Bulgarian language, the Cyrillic alphabet and Bulgaria’s traditions were presented to hundreds of pupils from British schools as part of the European Day of Languages, held at Sinfonia Smith Square in London. The Bulgarian language, the Cyrillic alphabet and Bulgaria’s traditions were presented to hundreds of pupils from British schools as part of the European Day of Languages, held at Sinfonia Smith Square in London. The Bulgarian Embassy took part in the initiative with an interactive programme dedicated to the Bulgarian language and alphabet. At the heart of the Bulgarian presentation was the word “sun”, chosen as Bulgaria’s “magic word” in the special language passport given to participants. The word provided an opportunity for the children to discover some of the distinctive letters and sounds of the Bulgarian language, including “ъ” and “ц”. The activities featuring the Bulgarian alphabet attracted the greatest interest. The pupils practised writing the letters “ъ” and “ц”, formed words using alphabet cards, and wrote their own names in Cyrillic. Around 150 pupils took part in each of the four programme sessions held throughout the day. In addition to the interactive activities, they received materials presenting Bulgaria, as well as small gifts featuring elements of the Bulgarian alphabet and Bulgarian national symbols. The European Day of Languages is organised by the Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom and the diplomatic missions of EU Member States. The Embassy would like to express its gratitude to Ivan Stanchov School and Bukvaran School for their support! https://mfa.bg/en/news/49262 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49287 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49287 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 19:19:44 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the state ceremony to welcome the mortal remains of Tsar Samuil in Sofia. The solemn event took place in Knyaz Aleksandar I Square. Minister Petrova also took part in the procession to the St. Sofia Church, where the mortal remains of the Bulgarian ruler were placed in a special sarcophagus. Their return to Bulgaria is the result of many years of consistent efforts of Bulgarian diplomacy. The achievement of this historic success under Rumen Radev's government is an expression of mutual trust and opens a new page in the strategic r Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the state ceremony to welcome the mortal remains of Tsar Samuil in Sofia. The solemn event took place in Knyaz Aleksandar I Square. Minister Petrova also took part in the procession to the St. Sofia Church, where the mortal remains of the Bulgarian ruler were placed in a special sarcophagus. Their return to Bulgaria is the result of many years of consistent efforts of Bulgarian diplomacy. The achievement of this historic success under Rumen Radev's government is an expression of mutual trust and opens a new page in the strategic relations between Bulgaria and Greece. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49264 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49286 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49286 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 19:17:20 +0300 On October 1, 2026, the 7th round of political consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria and India was held in Delhi, co-chaired by Mr. Chrristo Polendakov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria, and Mr. Sibi George, Secretary West (Deputy Minister) at the Ministry of External Affairs of India. The two countries expressed satisfaction with the excellent relations of traditional friendship and close partnership and committed to work for their further deepening in accordance with the shared political will of the state leadership. As an immediate follow-up, Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova's visit to India, planned for the end of November 2026, was highlighted. The need to accelerate the finalization of bilateral agreements and programs in the field of education, science and technology, the protection of classified information, and others, was emphasized.  Readiness was expressed to promote cooperation in priority areas such as high tech, artificial intelligence, space, connectivity, infrastructure, agriculture. Additional efforts are needed to exploit the potential of trade and economic exchange, including by using the complementary advantages of each country. The essential importance of EU-India relations and mutual interest in their deployment was highlighted. An important component in this regard is the entry into force of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement and its effective implementation. Issues on the international agenda were also discussed. During his visit to India, Deputy Minister Polendakov also held a meeting at the Ministry of Education of India. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49266 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49285 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49285 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 19:15:46 +0300 On 1 October 2026, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria Ivanka Tasheva took part in the Ministerial Meeting of the Berlin Process, hosted by Montenegro in Przno. In her statement, Deputy Minister Tasheva said that the European integration of the Western Balkans remains a strategic foreign policy priority and a key factor for Europe's security and resilience, also confirming Bulgaria's consistent support for the European perspective of the region. She stressed that progress on the path to membership should continue to be guided by the principle of personal merit, r On 1 October 2026, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria Ivanka Tasheva took part in the Ministerial Meeting of the Berlin Process, hosted by Montenegro in Przno. In her statement, Deputy Minister Tasheva said that the European integration of the Western Balkans remains a strategic foreign policy priority and a key factor for Europe's security and resilience, also confirming Bulgaria's consistent support for the European perspective of the region. She stressed that progress on the path to membership should continue to be guided by the principle of personal merit, reliability and fulfilment of agreed commitments. She emphasizes the key role of the Berlin Process in promoting connectivity, economic integration and cooperation among young people – elements that contribute to competitiveness and to creating real opportunities for citizens. Deputy Minister Tasheva also noted that strengthening institutions, the rule of law and protecting critical infrastructure are essential for building sustainable societies in Southeast Europe. Ivanka Tasheva also placed a serious emphasis on keeping the young generation in the region. She called for accelerating economic convergence, focusing on education and digital connectivity, youth mobility and building a predictable legal environment for young people to see a real future and European standards in their own countries. In conclusion, she called for strengthening regional engagement, trust and cooperation so that joint efforts lead to sustainable results for the citizens of the Western Balkans. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49227 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49235 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49284 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49284 Tue, 29 Sep 2026 19:06:19 +0300 Bulgaria has the potential to be a key regional factor that offers solutions, builds partnerships and turns its strategic location into concrete opportunities for connectivity, security and economic development. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova told the participants in the Annual General Assembly of the Association of Honorary Consuls in Bulgaria. Minister Petrova stressed that the complicated security environment, the ongoing international conflicts and the growing economic uncertainty require clear priorities, sustainable institutions and consistent protection of Bulgaria's str Bulgaria has the potential to be a key regional factor that offers solutions, builds partnerships and turns its strategic location into concrete opportunities for connectivity, security and economic development. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova told the participants in the Annual General Assembly of the Association of Honorary Consuls in Bulgaria. Minister Petrova stressed that the complicated security environment, the ongoing international conflicts and the growing economic uncertainty require clear priorities, sustainable institutions and consistent protection of Bulgaria's strategic interests. "Our foreign policy should be moderate and pragmatic, but also clearly oriented towards our own interests," Minister Petrova said. In this context, she stressed the importance of Bulgaria's membership in the European Union and NATO for security, stability and protection of the country's national interests. "Today, it is no longer enough for Bulgaria to just participate. We must clearly define our role, contribute to the security and stability of the alliances in which we are members and show our added value," our top diplomat stressed. In her words, an active foreign policy is one that offers solutions, creates partnerships and turns opportunities into concrete results. "Bulgaria is not a periphery. Our geographical location gives us the potential to be an entry point to Europe and a natural link to Central Asia and the Persian Gulf through the development of transport, energy, digital and trade corridors. We are working to turn this potential into real projects, investments and sustainable partnerships," Minister Petrova said. In recognition of the country's role and capacity, she pointed to the Regional Connectivity Summit, which Bulgaria will host in 2027. The forum will provide an opportunity for our country to place specific regional projects in a broader European framework and to strengthen its position as an active factor for connectivity and security in the region. Minister Petrova outlined three priority directions in the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – strengthening economic diplomacy, modernization and digitalization of consular services and more efficient allocation of diplomatic resources in accordance with modern economic and geopolitical realities. Special emphasis was placed on the need for the traditional political dialogue with Bulgaria's partners to be complemented by a specific economic agenda aimed at opening up new opportunities, attracting investment and supporting Bulgarian business on international markets. Minister Petrova also stressed the importance of active cooperation with the honorary consuls, whom she defined as important partners of the Bulgarian state. According to her, their experience, contacts and knowledge of the local environment can contribute both to the development of bilateral relations and to their transformation into concrete economic and societal benefits. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49283 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49283 Tue, 29 Sep 2026 19:04:23 +0300 The temporary head of the Embassy of the Republic of North Macedonia in Sofia was summoned today to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in connection with the refusal of the competent local institutions to allow the President of the Parliamentary Committee on Policies for Bulgarians Abroad Angel Georgiev to enter the country on September 27. The purpose of the visit was to attend a hearing on the case against our compatriot Iva Mihailova in Kočani the next day, in his capacity as a member of a Bulgarian parliamentary delegation. The temporary head of the Embassy of the Republic of North Macedonia in Sofia was summoned today to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in connection with the refusal of the competent local institutions to allow the President of the Parliamentary Committee on Policies for Bulgarians Abroad Angel Georgiev to enter the country on September 27. The purpose of the visit was to attend a hearing on the case against our compatriot Iva Mihailova in Kočani the next day, in his capacity as a member of a Bulgarian parliamentary delegation. During the meeting, an explanation was requested regarding the motives of Skopje for taking such actions at the moment, given the unimpeded entry of Mr. Georgiev into the territory of the Republic of North Macedonia in the previous months on the same occasion. The Bulgarian side has clearly stated that it views such an approach as provocative. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49281 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49281 Tue, 29 Sep 2026 18:45:40 +0300 As of 12:00 on 29 September 2026, a total of 35,131 Bulgarian citizens have submitted applications for voting at polling stations outside the country. The data are published on the official website of the Central Election Commission. The deadline for submitting electronic applications expires at 24:00 Bulgarian time today As of 12:00 on 29 September 2026, a total of 35,131 Bulgarian citizens have submitted applications for voting at polling stations outside the country. The data are published on the official website of the Central Election Commission. Until 24:00 Bulgarian time today, our fellow countrymen abroad can submit an electronic application for voting through the online platform of the CEC. Applications have been submitted for 72 countries, some of which are not included in Decision No. 93-PVR of 3 September 2026. These include Angola – 1 application, Brazil – 18, Vietnam – 2, Indonesia – 4, Kazakhstan – 2, Cambodia – 1, Laos – 1, Latvia – 11, Lithuania – 4, Mexico – 4, Namibia – 1, and Peru – 1. So far, 68 Bulgarian citizens have declared their willingness to vote in New Zealand, 60 in Singapore and 53 in Iceland. The required number of applications was collected to set up polling stations in Auckland, Singapore and Reykjavik. Most applications were submitted in Türkiye – 12,210, followed by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland – 5,203, the Federal Republic of Germany – 3,519, the US – 2,507, Spain – 1,919, and the Netherlands – 1,036. The latest amendments to the Electoral Code require voters who are not included in the lists for voting outside the country to complete and sign a declaration – Appendix No. 29-PVR from the election papers – before the members of the sectional election commission on election day. This can lead to queues and delays in the voting process. The requirement does not apply to Bulgarian citizens who have previously submitted applications and are included in the relevant voter list. In countries outside the European Union, the so-called "automatic sections" are not established. Polling stations outside the diplomatic and consular representations shall be established by a decision of the CEC in the presence of not less than 40 voters who have submitted an application under Art. 16, para. 1 of the Election Code and at the discretion of the heads of the respective representations. In order to facilitate the exercise of their right to vote and the organization of the electoral process, Bulgarian citizens abroad can submit an electronic application by the expiration of the deadline tonight. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49280 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49280 Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:36:30 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Japan's Ambassador to Bulgaria Chikahisa Sumi. The two discussed opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation and deepen the established strategic partnership between Bulgaria and Japan. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Japan's Ambassador to Bulgaria Chikahisa Sumi. The two discussed opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation and deepen the established strategic partnership between Bulgaria and Japan. Trade and economic relations, investments, energy, tourism, science and technology, as well as educational and cultural exchanges were highlighted as priority areas. "Areas such as business and research are ahead of government action. We must take advantage of the opportunities that are being created and actively support the implementation of initiatives with great potential,” the Foreign Minister said. Minister Petrova welcomed the established cooperation between the Institute of Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technologies (INSAIT) and the National Research Agency of Japan RIKEN. The partnership covers areas of artificial intelligence such as robotics, machine learning and computer vision. The conversation also focused on opportunities to promote educational and youth exchanges through various programs to allow young people to get to know the country better. Both sides also stressed the key importance of connectivity in the current geopolitical context. "This is not just a major issue on the political agenda. Connectivity is the implementation of specific projects and partnerships, and this is exactly what Bulgaria's efforts are aimed at,” Minister Petrova stressed. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49210 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49209 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49208 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49155 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49143 https://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://mfa.bg/en/news/49141 https://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.