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/ Sat, 31 Oct 2026 07:12:50 +0200 en hourly 1 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49589 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49589 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 16:15:40 +0200 The launch of this route is the result of the efforts of Ambassador Nikola Nikolov and the exceptional cooperation of Captain Yanko Ivanov, representing GullivAir. Regular flights operated by GullivAir, in cooperation with Bulgaria Air, will commence on 7 November 2026. The launch of this route is the result of the efforts of Ambassador Nikola Nikolov and the exceptional cooperation of Captain Yanko Ivanov, representing GullivAir. Flights will operate twice a week, with Airbus A320 aircraft. For further information, please visit the GullivAir website. The resumption of the direct Sofia–Yerevan–Sofia air route is an important step towards strengthening ties between our nations, developing year-round tourist exchanges, facilitating business and trade-economic relations, and fostering cultural ties, whilst also injecting new momentum into relations between the two countries. Ambassador Nikola Nikolov, the Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia, Ambassador Vassilis Maragos, and representatives of Armenian state institutions will welcome passengers on the first flight from Sofia at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49587 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49587 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 16:12:39 +0200 On October 29, 2026, the Director of the General Directorate “Border Police” (GDBP), Chief Commissioner Anton Zlatanov, PhD began his working visit to the Republic of Armenia. On October 29, 2026, the Director of the General Directorate “Border Police” (GDBP), Chief Commissioner Anton Zlatanov, PhD began his working visit to the Republic of Armenia. During the day, he held a meeting with Ambassador Vassilis Maragos, Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia. The two interlocutors discussed issues related to visa liberalization for Armenia, as well as opportunities for potential future cooperation with representatives of various institutions in the country. The Director of the General Directorate “Border Police” also held a meeting with Armen Ghazaryan, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, with whom he exchanged views on various topics related to both visa liberalization and the exchange of experience and best practices between the relevant institutions. Chief Commissioner Anton Zlatanov, PhD also visited the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Yerevan, where Ambassador Nikolov briefed him on the Mission’s activities and the Embassy staff. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49585 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49585 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 16:09:56 +0200 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova: “Our goal is clear: safer seas, resilient infrastructure, and a secure environment in which innovation contributes to peace, stability and prosperity.” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova: “Our goal is clear: safer seas, resilient infrastructure, and a secure environment in which innovation contributes to peace, stability and prosperity.” Bulgaria called for enhanced international cooperation, information-sharing and common early warning mechanisms, as well as the protection of ports, undersea cables, energy facilities and other critical infrastructure in the context of security in the Black Sea. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova participated in the United Nations Security Council high-level open debate on “Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security: Implications for Peace and Security”, convened at the initiative of Greece. As a Black Sea littoral state, Bulgaria underscored the importance of freedom of navigation, maritime security and the protection of civilian shipping amid Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Recent attacks against commercial vessels and critical infrastructure highlight the growing risks associated with the use of unmanned systems, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Bulgaria called for enhanced international cooperation, information-sharing and common early warning mechanisms, as well as the protection of ports, undersea cables, energy facilities and other critical infrastructure. The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence, satellite surveillance and data analytics to monitor maritime traffic, prevent illicit activities and enable faster responses to disasters. Effective safeguards, high cybersecurity standards, human oversight and clear accountability are essential. Decisions affecting human lives and international security must not be left entirely to automated systems, Ambassador Karadjova further emphasized.   https://mfa.bg/en/news/49583 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49583 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 16:03:02 +0200 A series of cultural events dedicated to Bulgarian cinema, music, photography and visual arts took place in Luxembourg in October 2026, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. A series of cultural events dedicated to Bulgarian cinema, music, photography and visual arts took place in Luxembourg in October 2026, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Organised in close cooperation of the Embassy of Bulgaria in Brussels with the Bulgarian community in Luxembourg and the local cultural organisations, the events presented the diversity of Bulgarian artistic expression and cultural heritage to the international audience, contributing to the promotion of Bulgaria and the strengthening of cultural ties between the two countries. The highlight of the program was the 19th edition of the Central and Eastern European Film Festival CinEast, held from 9 to 25 October, with Bulgaria as its country of focus. The program of the Focus presented contemporary Bulgarian cinema through screenings of feature films, documentaries and short films, accompanied by meetings and discussions with Bulgarian directors and filmmakers. Ambassador Natalia Uzunova attended the festival’s official opening on 14 October, as well as the special Bulgarian Evening held on 16 October, which featured a screening of the documentary Strandzha, followed by a discussion with its director, Pepa Hristova. Bulgaria’s participation in the festival was marked by the success of two films receiving Awards of the Audience. The documentary In Hell with Ivo, by Kristina Nikolova, won the Audience Award for Best Feature Film, while Gadzhe, presented by director Georges Vanev and producer Nevena Semova, received the Audience Award for Best Short Fiction Film. These distinctions reflected the appreciation of international audiences for Bulgarian cinema and the work of Bulgarian filmmakers. Music also featured prominently in the cultural programme. On 10 October, the ensemble GloBalKan, featuring Bulgarian musicians Nedyalko Nedyalkov, Petar Milanov, Stoyan Yankulov and Vladimir Karparov, gave a concert combining Bulgarian folk music, jazz and contemporary musical influences. On 18 October, brothers Aleksandar and Konstantin Vladigerov, together with percussionist Stoil Ivanov, performed a live musical accompaniment to Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau’s silent film Tartuffe, bringing together music and cinema in an original artistic presentation. Bulgarian visual arts were also represented through photography and painting. Bulgarian photographer Veselina Nikolaeva presented her project School No. 7 as part of the Crossroads exhibition, included in the accompanying programme of CinEast. On 17 October, a solo exhibition by Bulgarian artist Kamen Bonev was inaugurated at Foyer Européen in Luxembourg, organised by the Bulgarian cultural association “Gaida”. The exhibition featured works from the series My Blue, inspired by the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, alongside other works by the artist. The opening was complemented by musical performances by the Vladigerov brothers and Stoil Ivanov. The  programme marking the 70th anniversary will conclude with a reception on 19 November 2026 at the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), with the participation of Mr Galab Donev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Republic of Bulgaria. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49578 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49578 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 14:04:45 +0200 The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign hosted its first-ever Bulgarian Studies Evening, celebrating Bulgaria's language, literature, music, and cultural traditions. Held at the university's Spurlock Museum, the event brought together students, faculty, members of the Bulgarian-American community, and friends of Bulgaria from across the Midwest, including Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, and Kansas. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign hosted its first-ever Bulgarian Studies Evening, celebrating Bulgaria's language, literature, music, and cultural traditions. Held at the university's Spurlock Museum, the event brought together students, faculty, members of the Bulgarian-American community, and friends of Bulgaria from across the Midwest, including Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, and Kansas. The evening featured poetry readings of works by prominent Bulgarian poets Damyan Damyanov, Stefan Tsanev, Aleksandar Petrov, and Nadezhda Zaharieva, a short theatrical performance, traditional Bulgarian songs, and folk dances. A highlight of the celebration was the participation of students enrolled in Bulgarian language and culture courses, who showcased their growing knowledge of the language and their appreciation of Bulgaria's rich literary and cultural heritage. The event marked another important milestone following the successful restoration of Bulgarian language and culture instruction at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign during the 2025–2026 academic year. This initiative was made possible through the active cooperation of the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Chicago, Bulgaria's Ministry of Education and Science, and the university's academic partners. The Bulgarian Studies program attracts students from a variety of academic disciplines, creating opportunities to explore Bulgaria's history, literature, language, and cultural heritage from an interdisciplinary perspective. Beyond language instruction, the program serves as a platform for cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and lasting connections between Bulgaria and future professionals across different fields. Consul General of Bulgaria in Chicago Svetoslav Stankov expressed his appreciation to the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures, the Russian, East European, and Eurasian Center (REEEC), and the Spurlock Museum for their invaluable support and hospitality. Special recognition was given to Dr. Iliyana Dimitrova, Bulgarian language lecturer at the university, for her dedication to teaching and for creating the short theatrical performance presented during the celebration. The evening's festive atmosphere was further enriched by Sonya Membranyo, DJ Matey, and the Bulgarika Dance Group, whose performances brought the energy, beauty, and spirit of Bulgarian folk traditions to the university community. One of the most meaningful moments of the celebration was the presentation of a traditional Rhodope kaba gaida (Bulgarian bagpipe) to the university's student ensemble, Balkanalia. Handcrafted by master instrument maker Todor Todorov from the Bulgarian village of Shiroka Laka, the instrument was donated by Consul General Stankov in fulfillment of an earlier promise to the ensemble. The gift will help introduce more students and audiences in Illinois to the distinctive sound of Bulgaria's traditional folk music. "To hear Bulgarian poetry, music, and songs, and to see our traditional dances performed at one of America's leading universities is deeply moving. Even more meaningful is witnessing how Bulgarian culture brings people of different backgrounds together, inspiring new friendships and a lasting interest in Bulgaria," said Consul General Stankov. The inaugural Bulgarian Studies Evening represents another significant step toward strengthening Bulgaria's academic and cultural presence in the American Midwest. It highlights the value of cooperation among Bulgarian institutions, American universities, and the Bulgarian-American community in promoting Bulgarian language and culture and fostering stronger ties between Bulgaria and the United States.   https://mfa.bg/en/news/49552 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49552 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 13:27:26 +0200 On October 23rd, 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Washington, D.C. took part in the annual United Nations Day celebration, organized by the Oneness-Family School in Chevy Chase, Maryland. On October 23rd, 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Washington, D.C. took part in the annual United Nations Day celebration, organized by the Oneness-Family School in Chevy Chase, Maryland. For the past 38 years ambassadors and diplomats from embassies in Washington, DC have joined the ceremony by carrying their national flags in a procession of nations. Over 80 embassies usually participate in the celebration. As they present their country’s flag, the diplomats greet the audience with “Good morning, everyone!” in their native language.  This acts as an inspiration for the students to learn about the different cultures of the world. Oneness-Family School itself represents about 70 nationalities.  Oneness-Family School is international in scope and celebrates the world as one family. Through the annual flag ceremony, the school promotes the universal values of kindness, understanding and respect for all people regardless of race, religion or political beliefs, while encouraging students to develop a deeper appreciation of the world’s cultural diversity. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49533 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49533 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 14:51:56 +0200 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Prishtina, announces a procedure for the submission and selection of project proposals to be implemented with grant funding under the Republic of Bulgaria’s Official Development Assistance, with an implementation start date in 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Prishtina, announces a procedure for the submission and selection of project proposals to be implemented with grant funding under the Republic of Bulgaria’s Official Development Assistance, with an implementation start date in 2027. The deadline for the submission of project proposals is December 1, 2026. The priority areas and directions for project implementation within the territory of the Republic of Kosovo are: - Quality inclusive education; - Fostering sustainable economic growth and entrepreneurship.   Please see the attached files. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49530 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49530 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 11:22:43 +0200 On 20 October 2026, the Chargé dAffaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Pyongyang Daniel Rupanov visited the Grand People’s Study House of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The occasion was the donation of a selection of books about Bulgaria that were curated and kindly donated by St. Cyril and Methodius National Library of the Republic of Bulgaria. On 20 October 2026, the Chargé dAffaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Pyongyang Daniel Rupanov visited the Grand People’s Study House of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The occasion was the donation of a selection of books about Bulgaria that were curated and kindly donated by St. Cyril and Methodius National Library of the Republic of Bulgaria. The Bulgarian representative was welcomed by the Head of the International Affairs Section of the Grand People’s Study House Ms. Kim Mi Rae. The Korean side expressed deep gratitude for the generous donation, emphasizing that the books will find a fitting place within the collection of the Grand Peoplе’s Study House. Both sides agreed that these valuable publications will contribute to the improvement of the mutual understanding between the two nations. They further expressed confidence that cooperation between the libraries of Bulgaria and Korea will continue to develop in the spirit of the long-standing friendly ties between the two peoples. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49528 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49528 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:56:01 +0200 The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Tunis is launching a call for project proposals for the provision of grant assistance from the Republic of Bulgaria to Tunisia for 2027. Project proposals must be submitted via email to Embassy.Tunis@mfa.bg no later than December 1, 2026.“ The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Tunis is launching a call for project proposals for the provision of grant assistance from the Republic of Bulgaria to Tunisia for 2027. Project proposals must be submitted via email to Embassy.Tunis@mfa.bg no later than December 1, 2026. Call   https://mfa.bg/en/news/49523 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49523 Sun, 25 Oct 2026 17:45:51 +0200 The Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Finland Zornitsa Apostolova and the diplomatic staff at the Embassy in Helsinki took part in the traditional commemorative ceremony marking the anniversary of the Battle of Gorni Dubnik. The battle, which took place on October 24, 1877, was a turning point in the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation (1877-1878), in which the historic Finnish Guards’ Rifle Battalion played a decisive role. This memorable event holds a special place in Bulgarian-Finnish relations. The Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Finland Zornitsa Apostolova and the diplomatic staff at the Embassy in Helsinki took part in the traditional commemorative ceremony marking the anniversary of the Battle of Gorni Dubnik. The battle, which took place on October 24, 1877, was a turning point in the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation (1877-1878), in which the historic Finnish Guards’ Rifle Battalion played a decisive role. This memorable event holds a special place in Bulgarian-Finnish relations. The ceremony took place at the Finnish Guard Memorial located in the Old Guard Cemetery in the Finnish capital, where Ambassador Apostolova laid a wreath as a token of gratitude and tribute to the memory of the Finnish soldiers who fought and gave their lives for the freedom of Bulgaria. Wreaths and flowers were also laid in a solemn atmosphere by the Commander of the Guard Jaeger Regiment Colonel Ari Lehmuslehti, the Commander of the Guard Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Antti Montonen and other senior Finnish officers, as well as by representatives of the Finland-Bulgaria Friendship Society. The event was organized by the Finnish Guard Jaeger Regiment, which includes the Finnish Guard Battalion—the direct successor to the Finnish Guards’ Rifle Battalion established in 1812. Keeping with the established tradition, which honors the close connection between the battalion's history and the history of our country, the Bulgarian Ambassador in Helsinki also attends as a guest of honour the annual ceremonies marking the anniversary of the Guard Battalion's establishment. The 214th anniversary of the Guard Battalion was solemnly celebrated on September 18, 2026, at the military base on the island of Santahamina in Helsinki. The ceremony was led by the Guard Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Antti Montonen, and included a parade review and a ceremonial march. The upcoming year 2027 will mark the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gorni Dubnik and the participation of the Finnish Battalion in the Liberation War — events that have forged a deep bond of friendship and respect between the Bulgarian and Finnish peoples. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49545 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49545 Sat, 24 Oct 2026 16:24:36 +0200 Bulgaria and France signed an updated Roadmap for their strategic partnership The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, welcomed the France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, in Varna. This is the first visit of a French foreign minister to Bulgaria in 20 years. The visit gave a new impetus to the political dialogue and strategic partnership between the two countries. Bulgaria and France signed an updated Roadmap for their strategic partnership The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, welcomed the France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, in Varna. This is the first visit of a French foreign minister to Bulgaria in 20 years. The visit gave a new impetus to the political dialogue and strategic partnership between the two countries. At the Euxinograd Palace near Varna, the two ministers signed the updated Roadmap to the Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Bulgaria and France, established in 2008. The document sets a comprehensive and up-to-date framework for bilateral cooperation and outlines specific directions for its development in line with modern realities. It covers political dialogue and coordination on European issues, economy and investment, defence, energy, infrastructure, education and culture. Areas with the potential for joint initiatives include the defence industry, energy, space technology and artificial intelligence. Black Sea security and shipping safety were among the main topics of discussion. Minister Petrova thanked France for its expressed solidarity with Bulgaria after the attacks on commercial ships in the Bulgarian exclusive economic zone. The two ministers stressed the need for coordinated action in the EU and NATO to protect civilian crews and ensure freedom of navigation. They shared the understanding that the establishment of a moratorium on strikes against merchant ships in the Black Sea is necessary for the protection of civilian crews and the safety of navigation. Minister Petrova also stressed the need to strengthen surveillance and defence capabilities in the region in a timely manner, including through closer allied cooperation. It was emphasized that Bulgaria and Romania are working for the development of the Black Sea Maritime Security Centre and for the progress on the European Union's priorities for the Black Sea region. In this context, France's support and cooperation with European partners are important. "The Black Sea Security Hub is part of the strategic European approach to security in the Black Sea", Velislava Petrova said. Bulgaria and Romania are working together to build it as a network structure with complementary centres in Varna and Constanta. Among the planned areas of work of the Bulgarian centre are situational awareness, protection of critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, countering hybrid threats and environmental security. The talks also focused on the strategic connectivity between Europe and Asia. Minister Petrova presented the upcoming connectivity summit, which Bulgaria will host in 2027, and the opportunities for the forum to boost transport corridors and regional partnerships. The signing of the updated Roadmap and the talks held confirmed the common will of Bulgaria and France to develop their strategic partnership through active political dialogue, allied solidarity and concrete practical results in the interest of both countries and Europe. During the visit, the two ministers visited the Nikola Yonkov Vaptsarov Naval Academy. The Bulgarian component of the Black Sea Maritime Security Centre is to be located on the school's territory. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49503 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49503 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 08:19:50 +0200 Today, October 23, 2026, Nikola Nikolov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, together with Dimitar Nikolov, Mayor of Burgas, and his accompanying delegation, visited and were briefed on the activities of the large-scale technological project, the Firebird Data Center, located in the city of Hrazdan. Today, October 23, 2026, Nikola Nikolov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, together with Dimitar Nikolov, Mayor of Burgas, and his accompanying delegation, visited and were briefed on the activities of the large-scale technological project, the Firebird Data Center, located in the city of Hrazdan. Later that day, the delegation also visited the city of Tsaghkadzor, where Mayors Dimitar Nikolov and Narek Harutyunyan signed a Memorandum of Twinning between the cities of Burgas and Tsaghkadzor. The parties also discussed details regarding future cooperation, as well as the implementation of joint initiatives of mutual interest. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49497 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49497 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 17:39:30 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Bosnia and Herzegovina, announces a procedure for the submission and selection of project proposals to be implemented with grant funding under the Republic of Bulgaria’s official development assistance, with an implementation start date in 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Bosnia and Herzegovina, announces a procedure for the submission and selection of project proposals to be implemented with grant funding under the Republic of Bulgaria’s official development assistance, with an implementation start date in 2027. Call https://mfa.bg/en/news/49494 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49494 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 17:21:33 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Georgia announces a procedure for the acceptance and selection of proposals for projects to be implemented with a grant through the Official Development Assistance of the Republic of Bulgaria, with an initial implementation period in 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Georgia announces a procedure for the acceptance and selection of proposals for projects to be implemented with a grant through the Official Development Assistance of the Republic of Bulgaria, with an initial implementation period in 2027. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49492 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49492 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 17:08:46 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Addis Ababa announces a procedure for the acceptance and selection of proposals for projects to be implemented with a grant through the Official Development Assistance of the Republic of Bulgaria, with an initial implementation period in 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Addis Ababa announces a procedure for the acceptance and selection of proposals for projects to be implemented with a grant through the Official Development Assistance of the Republic of Bulgaria, with an initial implementation period in 2027. Call https://mfa.bg/en/news/49490 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49490 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 16:49:22 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Republic of Albania, announces a call for project proposals to be financed through grants under Bulgaria's Official Development Assistance (ODA), with implementation commencing in 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Republic of Albania, announces a call for project proposals to be financed through grants under Bulgaria's Official Development Assistance (ODA), with implementation commencing in 2027. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49543 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49543 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 16:18:56 +0200 Minister Velislava Petrova met with the President of the Western Outlands Research Institute, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angel Dzhonev, and Dr. Valentin Yanev, member of the Management Board of the Institute. The reason for the conversation, which took place on October 22, was the refusal of the authorities of the Republic of Serbia to allow Bulgarian citizens into their territory on the grounds that they pose a threat to the national security of the country. Minister Velislava Petrova met with the President of the Western Outlands Research Institute, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angel Dzhonev, and Dr. Valentin Yanev, member of the Management Board of the Institute. The reason for the conversation, which took place on October 22, was the refusal of the authorities of the Republic of Serbia to allow Bulgarian citizens into their territory on the grounds that they pose a threat to the national security of the country. During the meeting, in addition to the specific case study, Assoc. Prof. Djonev and Dr. Yanev presented the activities of the Western Outlands Research Institute. A number of issues related to the situation of the Bulgarian national minority in Serbia and especially the difficulties and problems faced by Bulgarians living in the border regions of the neighbouring country were also discussed. Minister Petrova assured Assoc. Prof. Dzhonev and Dr. Yanev in the full support of the Bulgarian state and in particular of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for them and for the activities of the Western Outlands Research Institute. She stressed that the issues raised at the meeting are approached with maximum attention and will continue to be a priority for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49544 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49544 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 16:20:51 +0200 The Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria and Uzbekistan held bilateral political consultations on 22 October 2026 in Tashkent at the invitation of the Uzbek side. The Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria and Uzbekistan held bilateral political consultations on 22 October 2026 in Tashkent at the invitation of the Uzbek side. The two delegations, led by the Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs - Ivanka Tasheva and Muzaffarbek Madrahimov, made a full overview of the bilateral relations and noted with satisfaction their upward development in the last two years, an important impetus for which was given by the official visit of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Uzbekistan in June 2025. A review of the bilateral contractual and legal basis was made, and satisfaction was expressed with its upgrade with two important documents for the development of our bilateral cooperation - the Agreement on the Regulation of Labour Migration and the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture. The first is of particular importance for both countries, given Bulgaria's growing attractiveness for attracting Uzbekistan's workforce. In this regard, Bulgaria expressed interest in signing a social security agreement that will guarantee the rights of workers. The high assessment of the two countries for the particularly dynamic development of bilateral cooperation along the agenda of Europe-Asia connectivity was emphasized. The Uzbek side thanked for Bulgaria's initiative, together with the EC, to host an international summit aimed at accelerating the implementation of strategic projects for energy, transport and digital connectivity. The huge potential of bilateral trade and economic relations and investments was found. The sectors of renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, food processing, high technology, the digital sector and artificial intelligence were highlighted as particularly promising. The recent holding of the 6th meeting of the Interparliamentary Committee for Economic and Scientific and Technical Cooperation in Tashkent at the beginning of next year was agreed to accelerate cooperation in these promising areas. Deputy Minister Tasheva welcomed the elevation of cooperation between the EU and the countries of the Central Asia region to the level of strategic partnership, announced at the first EU-Central Asia Summit in April 2025 in the city of Samarkand. Bulgaria welcomes the recently signed EU-Uzbekistan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, assuring its readiness and will for its ratification as soon as possible. Deputy Minister Tasheva also held a meeting with a delegation of Uzbek parliamentarians, members of the Friendship Groups with Bulgaria in the two chambers of the Parliament of Uzbekistan, led by Senator Alisher Akzamhozhaev, former Uzbek ambassador to Bulgaria, based in Ankara. The Uzbek side expressed satisfaction with the recent video-conference meeting of the friendship groups in both parliaments and praised the mutual commitment to intensify the dialogue between the legislative bodies of Bulgaria and Uzbekistan in support of the rich agenda of bilateral cooperation. https://mfa.bg/en/news/49486 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49486 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 16:15:43 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria through the Embassy / Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Lebanon announces a procedure for the acceptance and selection of proposals for projects to be implemented with a grant through the Official Development Assistance of the Republic of Bulgaria, with an initial implementation period in 2027. The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Beirut is launching a call for project proposals for the provision of grant assistance from the Republic of Bulgaria to Lebanon for 2027. Project proposals must be submitted via email to Bulgarian.oda.beirut@mfa.bg no later than December 1, 2026. Call   https://mfa.bg/en/news/49484 https://mfa.bg/en/news/49484 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 16:02:09 +0300 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Skopje, announces a procedure for the submission and selection of project proposals to be implemented with grant funding under the Republic of Bulgaria’s Official Development Assistance, with an implementation start date in 2027. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, through the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Skopje, announces a procedure for the submission and selection of project proposals to be implemented with grant funding under the Republic of Bulgaria’s Official Development Assistance, with an implementation start date in 2027. The deadline for the submission of project proposals is December 1, 2026. The priority areas and directions for project implementation within the territory of the Republic of North Macedonia are: - Improvement of educational infrastructure, including sports facilities; - Provision of quality healthcare; - Capacity building for the protection and guaranteeing of human rights; - Ensuring freedom of speech, media pluralism, and good practices for combating disinformation and fake news, as well as the exchange of experience and the establishment of lasting contacts and ties among journalists; - Promotion of democratic processes based on democratic values ​​and the rule of law.