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/ Tue, 02 Jun 2026 01:12:51 +0300 en hourly 1 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48200 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48200 Sat, 30 May 2026 13:00:10 +0300 On 29 May 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague hosted a meeting and discussion with journalist, war correspondent, and author Georgi Milkov, organized jointly by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague and the Bulgarian Hub Eindhoven. On 29 May 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague hosted a meeting and discussion with journalist, war correspondent, and author Georgi Milkov, organized jointly by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in The Hague and the Bulgarian Hub Eindhoven. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, guests had the opportunity to meet one of Bulgaria’s most distinguished journalists and storytellers. Georgi Milkov shared how he began writing books and recounted fascinating stories from his travels across Europe and around the world, as well as from his work in conflict zones. With his characteristic sense of humor and engaging storytelling style, he took the audience on a journey through different countries, cultures, and human experiences. We thank Georgi Milkov for this inspiring meeting and all guests who joined us for this memorable and enriching evening. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48171 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48171 Fri, 29 May 2026 14:43:02 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s unwavering commitment to the UN Charter, international law, and effective multilateralism during today’s UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter and Strengthening the UN-Centered International System.” Bulgaria underscored the need for a stronger, more effective and reformed United Nations, capable of addressing today’s global challenges and ensuring the maintenance of international peace and security. In her statement, Ambassador Karadjova highlighted the importance of: upholding international law and human rights; strengthening cooperation between the Security Council and the General Assembly; advancing the implementation of the Veto Initiative; reinforcing mechanisms for prevention, mediation and early warning. Bulgaria remains committed to working with international partners in support of peace, security and the principles at the core of the United Nations.   https://mfa.bg/en/news/48190 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48190 Fri, 29 May 2026 11:24:28 +0300 On May 23, 2026 a celebration was launched by the Bulgarian School "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Ottawa on the occasion of the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture and of Slavic Literature. The celebration was held in the Catholic School "St. George", where the Bulgarian classes are held on weekends. On May 23, 2026 a celebration was launched by the Bulgarian School "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Ottawa on the occasion of the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture and of Slavic Literature. The celebration was held in the Catholic School "St. George", where the Bulgarian classes are held on weekends. The celebration, which was attended by students, parents and guests, began with the performance of the Bulgarian national anthem. The students and guests were welcomed by Ms. Jeanne Ter-Stepanyan, director of a Catholic school, and Ms. Lyudmila Minkova, coordinator of the Foreign and Indigenous Languages ​​Program, which is the framework for the Bulgarian language training in Ottawa. Mrs. Vanina Zaharieva, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Capital Region Bulgarian Community and the Ottawa-Gatineau Foundation, extended congratulations on the holiday and announced that for a third consecutive year with his designated proclamation the Mayor of Ottawa has proclaimed May 24 as the Day of Bulgarian Cultural Heritage in the Canadian capital. The proclamation notes that May 24 is the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian alphabet created in the 9th century, of the education and the culture, and of Slavic literature. It is indicated that the Bulgarian presence in Canada dates back to the beginning of the 20th century and has contributed significantly to the development of Canadian society. The adopted document proclaims the celebration of the rich cultural heritage that our alphabet carries, as the original Cyrillic alphabet - a lasting and sustainable symbol of cultural and linguistic diversity. In addition, Mrs. Zaharieva presented a Certificate of Honor from the Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria to Ms. Daniela Yoveva, a teacher at the Bulgarian School "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" in Ottawa - for her contribution to the activities of the Bulgarian language teaching abroad, for her active work in support of the Bulgarian education, language and culture and for the promotion of the Bulgarian spirit abroad. On behalf of H. E. Plamen Georgiev, Ambassador of Bulgaria to Canada, and of the Bulgarian Embassy team the Consul to the Embassy in Ottawa Mrs. Elka Doncheva extended greetings to the students, teachers and parents on the occasion of May 24. The students from both classes of the school presented a musical and poetic program, including Bulgarian poems by Ivan Vazov, Vesa Paspaleeva and other authors, as well as traditional Bulgarian folklore dances. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48157 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48157 Fri, 29 May 2026 11:13:04 +0300 The Permanent Mission of Bulgaria to the United Nations hosted an informal event marking Bulgaria’s historic victory in the landmark 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. The Permanent Mission of Bulgaria to the United Nations hosted an informal event marking Bulgaria’s historic victory in the landmark 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. More than 150 diplomats from various UN Member States, UN officials, and representatives of the host country congratulated Bulgaria and DARA for the song “Bangaranga” and Bulgaria’s Eurovision victory. “Bulgaria showed Europe that dreams do come true, while ‘Bangaranga’ became a symbol for young people everywhere that no victory is impossible. I would like to invite all of you to visit Bulgaria next year, when our country will have the honor of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest. This victory will be a wonderful opportunity to discover the beauty of Bulgarian nature, talent, and culture,” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova said during the opening of the event. “Eurovision is a celebration of unity, culture, and music. Bulgaria will never forget 16 May 2026. With the unforgettable song ‘Bangaranga,’ the talented performer DARA united millions of people through music and demonstrated the strength of Bulgarian talent, creativity, and spirit,” Ambassador Karadjova emphasized.     https://mfa.bg/en/news/48155 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48155 Fri, 29 May 2026 11:10:35 +0300  On May 27, 2026, the Consulate General in New York screened the documentary film „Those to whom much is given“ by director Nikolay Vasilev, exploring inspiring stories about students and brilliant Bulgarian scientists and technologists who are shaping  our future. They are all connected through their mentor, the legendary physics teacher Teodosiy Teodosiev.  On May 27, 2026, the Consulate General in New York screened the documentary film „Those to whom much is given“ by director Nikolay Vasilev, exploring inspiring stories about students and brilliant Bulgarian scientists and technologists who are shaping  our future. They are all connected through their mentor, the legendary physics teacher Teodosiy Teodosiev. The event was presented by Consul Daniela Sirakova, who introduced the documentary production team and noted the fact that this film is being aired on one of the brightest days of the year - right after the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, May 24. Days when we traditionally turn our attention to the letters, words and people who lead us forward. In this context, she pointed out that the Bulgarian spirit celebrates its triumphs not only in our country, but also throughout the world, and the fact that a few years ago, it seemed impossible, but today the Bulgarian language is officially recognized in a number of US states through the program “Seal of Biliteracy”. The movie turns the focus of the audience to a different category of people – „Those to whom much is given “, those who do not wait for a change, but create it with their mind, heart and work. Ms. Sirakova highlighted the fact that Teo does not just teach complex physics, but teaches morality, dignity and critical thinking, and that true enlightenment is not left in history, but is happening today. The film "Those to whom much is given" caused great excitement among the public, who had the opportunity to take part in a discussion with the director Nikolay Vassilev, and producers Poli Angelova and Nikolay Todorov. During the conversation, one of the guests made a suggestion that the film be broadcast and included in the curricula of Bulgarian schools, thus providing an inspiration for the younger generations. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48144 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48144 Thu, 28 May 2026 16:34:44 +0300 Bulgaria joined Ukraine, European Union Delegation to the UN and 48 UN Member States in a stakeout condemning Russia’s latest escalation of aggression against Ukraine and the intensified attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. On 23–24 May, Russia launched one of the largest aerial attacks against Ukraine since the start of the war, employing ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as hundreds of drones. Kyiv suffered one of the most devastating attacks recorded to date.  Bulgaria stands in solidarity with Ukraine and reiterates its support for international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of civilians. We call for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire, as well as urgent humanitarian measures, including: - the full exchange of prisoners of war - the release of all unlawfully detained persons - the safe return of all deported and forcibly transferred civilians, including thousands of Ukrainian children We welcome the continued efforts of the United States, European countries, and partners worldwide to help bring this war to an end. We remain united in support of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, in line with the UN Charter. #StandWithUkraine https://mfa.bg/en/news/48142 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48142 Wed, 27 May 2026 15:57:00 +0300 On 26 May, a reception was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Armenia to celebrate 24 May — the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. On 26 May, a reception was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Armenia to celebrate 24 May — the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. Representatives of Armenian state institutions, ambassadors of the EU, Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Romania, the Czech Republic and Serbia, the  Charge d'Affairs of the Embassy of Ukraine, representatives of the academic community and the media, as well as many friends of Bulgaria, attended the event. In his welcome address, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Nikola Nikolov emphasized that 24 May is a significant holiday not only for Bulgaria, but also for all nations that share the spiritual heritage of Slavic writing and culture. He noted that the work of Saints Cyril and Methodius serves as a bridge between nations, symbolizing knowledge, spirituality and mutual respect. Furthermore, Ambassador Nikolov pointed out that, now more than ever, it is culture, education and dialogue that unite us, reminding us of the value of the shared spiritual space. The event took place in a cheerful and festive atmosphere, partly thanks to the presence of students from the 131-st Peyo Yavorov Primary School in Yerevan, who performed the national anthems of the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of Armenia, as well as popular songs in Bulgarian and Armenian, and folk dances. The children's performance impressed the guests at the reception, and special credit for this goes to their instructors, who were awarded certificates of honour by Ambassador Nikolov. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48125 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48125 Wed, 27 May 2026 16:37:08 +0300 Ambassador Rumen Alexandrov represented Bulgaria at the VIII Intergovernmental Conference on the Accession of  Albania to the EU, held on 26 May in Brussels. Ambassador Rumen Alexandrov represented Bulgaria at the VIII Intergovernmental Conference on the Accession of  Albania to the EU, held on 26 May in Brussels. During the meeting, the fulfilment by Albania of the interim benchmarks under Cluster 1 “Fundamentals” was confirmed, and closing benchmarks were set for Chapter 23 “Judiciary and Fundamental Rights” and Chapter 24 “Justice, Freedom and Security”. This marked an important step on the country’s path towards membership in the European Union, as it opens the possibility for Albania to begin closing negotiating clusters. “We congratulate Albania on the progress achieved, as well as on its political determination and motivation to advance along the path of reforms, which ultimately benefit its citizens. We encourage Albania to pay particular attention to the protection of the rights of persons belonging to national minorities. Bulgaria remains fully committed to supporting Tirana’s efforts to join the European Union, based on the principle of own merits,” Ambassador Alexandrov stated. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48114 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48114 Wed, 27 May 2026 14:52:19 +0300 On May 26, 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Brussels hosted a reception to celebrate May 24—the Day of the Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education, and culture, and Slavic literature. On May 26, 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Brussels hosted a reception to celebrate May 24—the Day of the Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education, and culture, and Slavic literature. In her welcoming remarks, H.E. Ms. Natalia Uzunova, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, emphasized the significance of May 24, noting that this day is not only a tribute to the legacy of our ancestors but also a celebration of the power of knowledge, the beauty of language, and the unbreakable spirit of a nation that has, for centuries, cherished education as the foundation of its identity. This is why on this day, we honor the teachers, the students, and all those who dedicate their lives to the noble cause of learning, to making education accessible to all, and culture - a source of connection.  Ambassador Uzunova also highlighted the significance of the Cyrillic alphabet as the third official alphabet of the European Union and an important contribution by Bulgaria to European and cultural diversity. The program of the event included a poetry recital by Teodora Lalova-Spinks, who presented works from her bilingual debut poetry collection “Afternoons Like These” , as well as musical performances by young Bulgarian musicians and distinguished students of the Royal Conservatory of Brussels, Julian Stanchev (guitar and clarinet) and Boris Bykov (piano). The embassy also displayed children’s drawings inspired by May 24, created by students from Bulgarian schools in Belgium. Among the guests at the reception were foreign and Bulgarian diplomats, representatives of the EU institutions, the cultural community, as well as members of the Bulgarian community and friends of Bulgaria, all united by their appreciation of the Bulgarian culture, education, and spirituality. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48135 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48135 Wed, 27 May 2026 13:41:02 +0300 On 19 May this year, at the initiative of the Bulgarian Embassy in London, a wreath-laying ceremony was organized to commemorate the 128th anniversary of the death of British Prime Minister William Gladstone and the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising. William Gladstone remains in history as the most prominent British politician to have raised a strong voice in support of the Bulgarian cause for freedom and independence. On 19 May this year, at the initiative of the Bulgarian Embassy in London, a wreath-laying ceremony was organized to commemorate the 128th anniversary of the death of British Prime Minister William Gladstone and the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising. William Gladstone remains in history as the most prominent British politician to have raised a strong voice in support of the Bulgarian cause for freedom and independence. Through his pamphlet “Bulgarian Horrors and the Question of the East”, William Gladstone drew public attention to the suffering of the Bulgarian people. His efforts contributed to shaping the diplomatic environment in Europe. For this reason, Gladstone is remembered in Bulgaria as a steadfast defender of justice and human dignity. Among those attending the event were his great-great-grandson Francis Gladstone and several other family members; James Asser, Chair of the Bulgaria Friendship Group in the British Parliament; John Brisby, Chairman of the organization “Friends of Bulgaria”; Dr Stoyan Radkov, a researcher of Gladstone’s legacy; representatives of Westminster City Council; and members of the Bulgarian community. A wreath was also laid by Honorary Councillor Angela Harvey, former Lord Mayor of Westminster. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48133 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48133 Wed, 27 May 2026 11:41:41 +0300 On 13 May 2026, Ambassador Angel Bandjov met with Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). On 13 May 2026, Ambassador Angel Bandjov met with Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). During the meeting, the parties discussed the main priorities of IFRC, including the protection of the rights of women and girls in situations of crisis and conflict. Ambassador Bandjov presented Bulgaria’s initiative for an optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child concerning free primary and secondary education, underlining the importance of access to education for equality and democratic development. Ms Forbes highly praised the work of the Bulgarian Red Cross and its Director, Prof. Dr. Sofia Stoimenova, highlighting the organization’s role in assisting Ukrainian refugees and its significant institutional capacity. She also stressed the importance of national Red Cross societies as auxiliary bodies to public authorities. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48090 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48090 Sun, 24 May 2026 13:31:59 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova donated two Bulgarian pysanky, which are now part of the international initiative “The Pysanka: A Symbol of Hope,” curated by Sofika Zielyk and organized by the Ukrainian Institute of America in partnership with the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations. Bulgaria is the 20th country to join the exhibition with a pysanka contribution. Since 2022, the collection has grown to more than 1,000 pysanky, with participation from all 50 U.S. states except Alaska. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova donated two Bulgarian pysanky, which are now part of the international initiative “The Pysanka: A Symbol of Hope,” curated by Sofika Zielyk and organized by the Ukrainian Institute of America in partnership with the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations. Bulgaria is the 20th country to join the exhibition with a pysanka contribution. Since 2022, the collection has grown to more than 1,000 pysanky, with participation from all 50 U.S. states except Alaska. “This remarkable exhibition stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people and to the enduring strength of culture in times of hardship and conflict. Together, these pysanky transform an ancient folk tradition into a universal message of courage, dignity, and peace,” Ambassador Karadjova said during the ceremony. Since ancient times, the pysanka has symbolized life, renewal, protection, and continuity. Fragile in form yet profound in meaning, each pysanka carries generations of history, spirituality, and national identity. “This exhibition is also a significant act of cultural diplomacy. It reminds us that culture is not only a reflection of identity, but also a means of preserving humanity at times when humanity itself is under threat. Through these pysanky, the world expresses its solidarity with Ukraine and reaffirms the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations,” Ambassador Karadjova emphasized. In closing, Ambassador Karadjova noted that today’s event reminds us that even in the most difficult times, creativity, tradition, and human solidarity remain stronger than fear and destruction. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48072 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48072 Sun, 24 May 2026 10:10:13 +0300 Dear compatriots, Today, we celebrate May 24 - the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. On this day, we celebrate with pride and joy the power of writing, education, and culture, as well as Bulgaria’s contribution to the world’s cultural heritage and the spiritual development of all Slavic peoples. Happy holiday! Dear compatriots, Today, we celebrate May 24 - the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature. On this day, we celebrate with pride and joy the power of writing, education, and culture, as well as Bulgaria’s contribution to the world’s cultural heritage and the spiritual development of all Slavic peoples. Happy holiday! https://mfa.bg/en/news/48167 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48167 Fri, 22 May 2026 13:51:53 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs, held on 21 – 22 May in Helsingborg, Sweden. A key focus of the discussions was the preparation for the forthcoming NATO Summit in Ankara in July this year, increasing defence spending, strengthening the defence industry and expanding production capacity. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs, held on 21 – 22 May in Helsingborg, Sweden. A key focus of the discussions was the preparation for the forthcoming NATO Summit in Ankara in July this year, increasing defence spending, strengthening the defence industry and expanding production capacity. The ministers also exchanged views on the ongoing war in Ukraine, as well as the evolving security situation in the wider Middle East region. In her remarks, Minister Petrova emphasised that unity and solidarity among Allies are key to ensuring security and stability in an increasingly complex international environment. Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening the European contribution within NATO and underscored the need to continue efforts to enhance defence capabilities on the Alliance’s Eastern Flank. Bulgaria’s top diplomat called for an increased focus on security, connectivity and freedom of navigation in the Black Sea region. Minister Petrova also underscored the important role of diplomacy in bringing the war in Ukraine to an end. The Allies agreed on the need for predictable support for Ukraine and its fair distribution among Allies. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha also participated in the session of the NATO – Ukraine Council. On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Petrova held a number of bilateral meetings with representatives of the United States, Canada, Ukraine, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Republic of North Macedonia, Estonia and Portugal. Current international and regional issues, as well as prospects for further cooperation in the field of security and defence, were discussed during the talks.       https://mfa.bg/en/news/48166 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48166 Fri, 22 May 2026 13:50:52 +0300 On the sidelines of the NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held talks with her counterpart from the Republic of North Macedonia, Timcho Mucunski On the sidelines of the NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held talks with her counterpart from the Republic of North Macedonia, Timcho Mucunski. The discussion focused on improving regional connectivity, with the two ministers reaffirming the strategic importance of the accelerated development of Corridor VIII for the prosperity, resilience and security of the region and Europe. In particular, concrete steps are needed towards the joint construction of the cross-border railway tunnel following the entry into force of the Intergovernmental Agreement of 6 November 2025. Minister Velislava Petrova reaffirmed Bulgaria’s consistent position that the full implementation of the commitments undertaken towards the European Union under the European Consensus of July 2022 remains the only guarantee of the Republic of North Macedonia’s sustainable progress on its path towards EU accession. Minister Petrova further stated that, for Bulgaria, ensuring the full protection of the rights of Macedonian Bulgarians will continue to be a matter of priority importance.   https://mfa.bg/en/news/48061 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48061 Fri, 22 May 2026 11:26:07 +0300 The Day of the Bulgarian Armed Forces was solemnly celebrated at the Embassy of Bulgaria in London with the participation of military and diplomatic representatives from allied and partner countries. The event showcased the rich history and traditions of the Bulgarian Armed Forces, as well as the ongoing process of modernising their defense capabilities to ensure a reliable response to contemporary security challenges. The celebration concluded with an official cocktail reception, providing an opportunity for discussions and the strengthening of allied and partner relations. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48081 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48081 Fri, 22 May 2026 11:04:33 +0300 On May 18th, the Bulgarian Embassy in London and the APPG on Bulgaria organised ​​an event in Westminster on the theme “Discover Bulgaria through Language and Flavours”. The event was dedicated to the Day of the Holy Brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture and Slavic literature and aimed to present the history of the Bulgarian language and alphabet, to promote the Friendship Group on Bulgaria and to attract support for the introduction of A-level and GCSE exams in Bulgarian in British schools. Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Bulgaria, James Asser, addressed the participants. On May 18th, the Bulgarian Embassy in London and the APPG on Bulgaria organised ​​an event in Westminster on the theme “Discover Bulgaria through Language and Flavours”. The event was dedicated to the Day of the Holy Brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture and Slavic literature and aimed to present the history of the Bulgarian language and alphabet, to promote the Friendship Group on Bulgaria and to attract support for the introduction of A-level and GCSE exams in Bulgarian in British schools. Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Bulgaria, James Asser, addressed the participants. As part of the programme, Dr Yordanka Velkova, Lecturer in Bulgarian Language, Literature and Culture at University College London (UCL), gave a presentation on the importance of the Cyrillic alphabet and the Bulgarian language. Dr Velkova, together with two of her British students, read in Bulgarian the anthem of the Bulgarian education “Forward, People Reborn”. A video greeting was also presented by the British Ambassador to Bulgaria, H.E. Nathaniel Copsey. The event was attended by the Chairman of the Group James Asser, the Deputy Chairman Lord Philip Smith, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons Caroline Hawkes, Lord John Randall, Mr. Martin Vickers and Mr. Richard Baker from the House of Commons, as well as representatives of the Bulgarian community. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48165 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48165 Thu, 21 May 2026 13:50:03 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha. During the meeting, Bulgaria’s top diplomat once again underscored that Bulgaria supports and remains committed to the coordinated efforts of the European Union and the United States to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on the Charter of the United Nations and the principles of international law. Areas of cooperation of mutual interest were discussed, including security, energy, reconstruction and logistics. The issue of the rights of the Bulgarian national minority in Ukraine –  the largest historic Bulgarian diaspora abroad – was also addressed, as it is of particular importance to the Bulgarian state. Among the topics discussed was Ukraine’s European integration in the context of the anticipated launch of accession negotiations through the opening of the first negotiating cluster –  “Fundamentals”.  The talks took place on the sidelines of the informal meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers held in the Swedish city of Helsingborg. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48164 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48164 Thu, 21 May 2026 13:49:16 +0300 “Tbilisi is in Sofia, just as Sofia is in Tbilisi,” Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polendakov said during the official opening ceremony held today, 21 May, for a garden in Sofia’s Lozenets district bearing the name of the Georgian capital. The ceremony followed the inauguration in March 2021 of a garden named “Sofia” in Tbilisi in honour of the Bulgarian capital. “Tbilisi is in Sofia, just as Sofia is in Tbilisi,” Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polendakov said during the official opening ceremony held today, 21 May, for a garden in Sofia’s Lozenets district bearing the name of the Georgian capital. The ceremony followed the inauguration in March 2021 of a garden named “Sofia” in Tbilisi in honour of the Bulgarian capital. In his remarks, Deputy Minister Polendakov emphasised that Bulgaria highly values its established relations and cooperation with Georgia, which have traditionally developed in an atmosphere of friendship and partnership. He noted that the long-standing historical and cultural ties between the Bulgarian and Georgian peoples form the foundation of this intensive interaction and the achievements attained in the field of trade and economic cooperation. These ties, he observed, “grow, but do not grow old”. The naming of a public space in Sofia after the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, is a clear sign of the desire of Bulgaria and Georgia to strengthen their constructive relations in areas of mutual interest, as well as the fruitful contacts between Bulgarians and Georgians. Deputy Minister Polendakov also took the opportunity, on behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova and in his own name, to extend congratulations on the occasion of Georgia’s upcoming national holiday – Independence Day on 26 May. The event was organised by the Embassy of Georgia in Sofia, Sofia Municipality and the Lozenets District Administration. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided consistent support over the years for the implementation of the initiative. Participants in the official opening ceremony of Tbilisi Garden included Sofia Mayor Vasil Terziev, H.E. Zurab Khamashuridze, Ambassador of Georgia to Bulgaria, Dr Konstantin Pavlov, Mayor of Lozenets District, representatives of the diplomatic corps in Bulgaria, representatives of Bulgarian state institutions, local residents and visitors to the capital. https://mfa.bg/en/news/48163 https://mfa.bg/en/news/48163 Thu, 21 May 2026 13:48:17 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, on the sidelines of the NATO Ministerial Meeting in Sweden. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, on the sidelines of the NATO Ministerial Meeting in Sweden. The two sides expressed their shared desire to deepen bilateral cooperation and strengthen the regular high-level political dialogue between Bulgaria and Canada. Particular emphasis was placed on expanding the partnership in areas such as security and defence, energy, trade and investment. Cooperation in the fields of innovation, education, science and technology, as well as on key international issues, was also discussed. During the meeting, Bulgaria’s Foreign Minister also raised the issue of opening a Canadian embassy in Sofia. According to Minister Petrova, this would contribute to further strengthening the partnership and enhancing diplomatic relations. For her part, Anita Anand emphasised that the establishment of a diplomatic mission would make an even greater contribution to deepening bilateral relations and economic ties between the two countries.