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://new.mfa.bg/en/ Mon, 04 May 2026 15:17:22 +0300 en hourly 1 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47850 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47850 Mon, 04 May 2026 13:21:58 +0300 Dear compatriots, In connection with the upcoming May holidays, we would like to inform you that the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Yerevan will be closed on the following days Dear compatriots, In connection with the upcoming May holidays, we would like to inform you that the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Yerevan will be closed on the following days: 01.05.2026; 06.05.2026; 08.05.2026. In urgent and urgent cases, you can contact the Consular Service at the duty phone number: +37496405210. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47832 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47832 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:32:10 +0300 On April 25, 2026, a gala evening was held in Ottawa to mark the International Women’s Day, organized by the non-governmental organization “Leading Ladies Canada.” On April 25, 2026, a gala evening was held in Ottawa to mark the International Women’s Day, organized by the non-governmental organization “Leading Ladies Canada.” The organization’s mission is to promote inclusion and empower women, children, and youth from diverse communities through programs that provide the tools and resources needed for personal and professional development. The event’s theme was “Empowered voices, inspiring change: celebrating the impact and leadership of women.” One of the gala’s sponsors was the Bulgarian Foundation under the Board of Directors of the National Capital Region Ottawa–Gatineau Bulgarian Community. The event featured panel discussions with women leaders from various communities, female members of the Canadian Parliament, representatives of municipal authorities, and others, who shared their life stories and the challenging paths they have taken to achieve success. An awards ceremony was also held to recognize distinguished women leaders in their respective communities. Among those honored for exceptional leadership and as an inspiration to the next generation of women leaders was Mrs. Olga Arnaudova. She has dedicated more than three decades to preserving and promoting the Bulgarian language and culture in Canada. Mrs. Arnaudova is a teacher at the Bulgarian School in Ottawa and currently leads the high-school credit course, inspiring young people to earn academic credit while strengthening their Bulgarian linguistic and cultural roots. She holds a PhD in Linguistics from the University of Ottawa and is the author of research on the Bulgarian language. Mrs. Arnaudova has been a driving force in the local Bulgarian community and is one of the founders of the Bulgarian School in Ottawa. She also served as Ottawa's representative to the Bulgarian Arts Festival from 2013 to 2023. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47826 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47826 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:18:59 +0300 On 28 April 2026, a protocol meeting was held at the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Republic of Armenia between the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to Armenia, Mr. Nikola Nikolov, and the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Mr. Arsen Torosyan. On 28 April 2026, a protocol meeting was held at the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Republic of Armenia between the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to Armenia, Mr. Nikola Nikolov, and the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Mr. Arsen Torosyan. The meeting confirmed the excellent level of bilateral relations and focused on enhancing cooperation in the fields of social security and labor migration. Both sides expressed readiness to advance the dialogue on the draft Social Security Agreement and to promote the effective implementation of existing arrangements. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47822 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47822 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:28:10 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova delivered a national statement during the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain” under the agenda item “Maintenance of International Peace and Security.” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova delivered a national statement during the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain” under the agenda item “Maintenance of International Peace and Security.” We share highlights from the statement of the Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations: • Bulgaria highly appreciates the initiative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to convene this important and timely UN Security Council Open Debate. We take this opportunity to once again express our solidarity with our partners in the region, who continue to face direct negative consequences of the military escalation in the Middle East. • The situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to evolve into a serious global economic and trade crisis. Maritime traffic is nearly paralyzed, leading to significant economic consequences, including an expected decline in global trade, risks to food security, rising inflation due to surging oil prices, and a slowdown in global economic growth. These effects are already being felt by people around the world, especially the most vulnerable. • Bulgaria supports Bahrain’s efforts to advance the implementation adoption of a United Nations Security Council resolution 2817 co-sponsored by 135 Member States, including Bulgaria • Bulgaria believes respect for international law is a non-negotiable prerequisite for lasting peace and calls for strict compliance with UNCLOS as the legal framework for all ocean activities. We demand an immediate end to illegal restrictions and full restoration of freedom of navigation⁠. • As a Black Sea littoral State, Bulgaria prioritizes the swift and effective implementation of the EU’s Strategic Approach to the Black Sea. Our active role will be a key enabler to strengthening maritime and environmental security, as well as ensuring freedom of navigation in a waterway of strategic importance for broader Europe-Asia connectivity. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47817 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47817 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:54:49 +0300 Bulgaria joined the Kingdom of Bahrain, President of the United Nations Security Council for the month of April 2026, and a broad group of UN Member States at today’s Security Council press stakeout, underscoring strong international unity on maritime security. Bulgaria joined the Kingdom of Bahrain, President of the United Nations Security Council for the month of April 2026, and a broad group of UN Member States at today’s Security Council press stakeout, underscoring strong international unity on maritime security. We reaffirm our full support for United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, which condemns Iran’s attacks against regional partners and calls for the immediate cessation of actions threatening international peace and security, including interference with freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. ---Video: European Union Delegation to the United Nations https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47802 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47802 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:43:37 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova held a meeting with Sivanka Dhanapala, Director of the New York Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The meeting took place at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Bulgaria in New York. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova held a meeting with Sivanka Dhanapala, Director of the New York Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The meeting took place at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Bulgaria in New York. During the meeting, the parties discussed the ongoing activities of UNHCR in addressing the growing challenges related to forced displacement worldwide, as well as the preparations for the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. Bulgaria reaffirmed its consistent support for international efforts aimed at the protection of refugees and the preservation of the global framework for their protection. UNHCR expressed high appreciation for the excellent cooperation with Bulgaria, as well as gratitude for the country’s support to Ukrainian refugees and displaced persons. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47798 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47798 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:48:27 +0300 On 31 march, during a courtesy meeting held on the occasion of the assumption of office of the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov, together with the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Daren Tang, the instrument of accession of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement was officially deposited – an important step towards strengthening the international protection of geographical indications and appellations of origin. On 31 march, during a courtesy meeting held on the occasion of the assumption of office of the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov, together with the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Daren Tang, the instrument of accession of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement was officially deposited – an important step towards strengthening the international protection of geographical indications and appellations of origin. During the meeting, the long-standing and fruitful partnership between the Republic of Bulgaria and WIPO was reaffirmed, with emphasis placed on the key role of intellectual property as a driver of innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth. Prospects for further deepening cooperation in the fields of intellectual property, innovation, and digital transformation were discussed, including opportunities for more active participation of the Republic of Bulgaria in WIPO initiatives and upcoming international forums. The country’s progress in high technologies was highlighted, including the work of the INSAIT and investments in modern digital infrastructure. Bulgaria’s ranking of 37th in the WIPO Global Innovation Index for 2025 was also noted, as well as the consistent national policy in support of research and development. The potential of the growing creative economy and opportunities for further cooperation in support of innovators and creators were also discussed. The Republic of Bulgaria’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, the international rule of law, and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations was reaffirmed. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47839 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47839 Sat, 25 Apr 2026 21:37:22 +0300 Bulgarian scientist Petko Dinev will visit Bulgaria on 27 and 28 April 2026 at the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski. Petko Dinev is among the Bulgarians who have made significant contributions in the field of high technologies and space applications, including the Artemis I and Artemis II missions of NASA. He has also played a substantial role in advancing Bulgarian – American cooperation in the areas of innovation and space. Bulgarian scientist Petko Dinev will visit Bulgaria on 27 and 28 April 2026 at the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski. Petko Dinev is among the Bulgarians who have made significant contributions in the field of high technologies and space applications, including the Artemis I and Artemis II missions of NASA. He has also played a substantial role in advancing Bulgarian – American cooperation in the areas of innovation and space. The purpose of his visit is to highlight the importance of the strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the United States, as well as the benefits of bilateral cooperation in priority areas such as science, technology, innovation, education and space. As part of his programme, he will visit Sofia Tech Park, the American College of Sofia, and will deliver a lecture at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski. The programme also includes meetings with representatives of the scientific and innovation communities. His visit forms part of the joint commemorations with the United States in 2026 marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, five years since the signing of the Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, and 20 years since the signing of the Defence Cooperation Agreement between Bulgaria and the United States. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47838 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47838 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:33:37 +0300 On 24 April 2026, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Radi Naydenov, held a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with H.E. Mr Modasar Chaudhry, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Bulgaria. On 24 April 2026, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Radi Naydenov, held a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with H.E. Mr Modasar Chaudhry, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Bulgaria. During the meeting, the Bulgarian side welcomed Pakistan’s continued diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts aimed at achieving a lasting and sustainable agreement regarding the crisis in the Middle East.   https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47787 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47787 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:04:15 +0300 A courtesy meeting between the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov on the occasion of assumption of his duties and the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) – Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo took place on the 20 March 2026 in the Headquarters of the Organization in Geneva. A courtesy meeting between the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov on the occasion of assumption of his duties and the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) – Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo took place on the 20 March 2026 in the Headquarters of the Organization in Geneva. Ambassador Bandjov declared the support of the Republic of Bulgaria for the ILO noting that the uninterrupted history of cooperation of the Republic of Bulgaria with the Organization dates back to 1920. He underlined that our country has long and well-developed Trade union tradition and the Bulgarian society attaches great importance to social justice. Ambassador Bandjov pointed out that the Republic of Bulgaria supports multilateralism and the rules-based international order. In this context he reminded that the Republic of Bulgaria pays timely and in full its assessed contributions to the ILO budget and upholds the sustained efforts of its leadership for enhancing its efficiency as a response to the current challenges. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47780 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47780 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:03:49 +0300 On April 24, 2026, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, H.E. Mr. Nikola Nikolov, participated in the memorial ceremony organized in Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex and laid a wreath in front of the Eternal Flame in memory of the victims of the mass extermination of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire in 1915-1922. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47777 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47777 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:27:26 +0300 On the occasion of the 111th anniversary of the mass extermination of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire in the period 1915-1922, the Embassy will be closed on 24 April, 2026. On the occasion of the 111th anniversary of the mass extermination of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire in the period 1915-1922, the Embassy will be closed on 24 April, 2026. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47776 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47776 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:28:01 +0300 Bulgaria’s delegation to this year’s ECOSOC Youth Forum, headed by the Permanent Representative, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, included this year’s Youth Delegates, Viktor Tsvetanov and Vyara Trifonova, as well as Mr. Kaloyan Stoynov, Director at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Mr. Stoynov and the delegation held a meeting with the President of ECOSOC and actively contributed to several panel discussions. Bulgaria’s Youth Delegates spoke in sessions on youth leadership and on youth in Europe and North America, while Mr. Stoynov participated in the panel on SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. An alumna of the Youth Delegate Program, Ms. Emily Karakoleva, also delivered remarks during the panel on SDG 9 on fostering sustainable industrialization and innovation. Bulgaria’s delegation to this year’s ECOSOC Youth Forum, headed by the Permanent Representative, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, included this year’s Youth Delegates, Viktor Tsvetanov and Vyara Trifonova, as well as Mr. Kaloyan Stoynov, Director at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Mr. Stoynov and the delegation held a meeting with the President of ECOSOC and actively contributed to several panel discussions. Bulgaria’s Youth Delegates spoke in sessions on youth leadership and on youth in Europe and North America, while Mr. Stoynov participated in the panel on SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. An alumna of the Youth Delegate Program, Ms. Emily Karakoleva, also delivered remarks during the panel on SDG 9 on fostering sustainable industrialization and innovation. The Youth Delegates further took part in a side event on access to financing, organized by the Youth Delegates of Czechia and Bulgaria together with the two Permanent Missions, entitled “From Financial Literacy to Financial Agency: Empowering Youth for Sustainable and Resilient Economies.” Bulgaria’s participation in this year’s Youth Forum concluded with a meeting between Ambassador Karadjova and Mr. Stoynov to discuss key outcomes of the Forum and opportunities to further strengthen youth participation in UN processes and at the national level. We are proud to see Bulgarian youth voices contributing to global discussions and shaping solutions for a more sustainable future. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47774 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47774 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:23:54 +0300 On 9 April 2026, the newly appointed Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov, held a courtesy meeting on the occasion of the commencement of his diplomatic mandate with the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin. On 9 April 2026, the newly appointed Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov, held a courtesy meeting on the occasion of the commencement of his diplomatic mandate with the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin. During the meeting, Ambassador Bandjov reaffirmed Bulgaria’s support for the activities of the ITU. He underlined that Bulgaria will continue to actively contribute to the efforts of the international community to promote peace, multilateralism, and the international legal order. He also emphasized Bulgaria’s consistent support for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, as well as for efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace. The parties discussed the upcoming key events in the ITU calendar for 2026, including the Council session (28 April – 8 May 2026, Geneva) and the Plenipotentiary Conference (9–27 November 2026, Doha, Qatar). Ambassador Bandjov recalled that the Republic of Bulgaria currently serves as a member of the ITU Council and has formally submitted it candidacy for re-election for the 2027–2030 term. He further highlighted Bulgaria has been a long-standing member of the Union since 1880 and has repeatedly contributed, particularly through its role on the Council, to the stable and consistent development of telecommunications, with a strong focus on reliability, accessibility, and efficiency. Information about the candidature can be found at the following web address: Bulgaria-Council-brochure-e.pdf https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47768 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47768 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:53:17 +0300 Ambassador Gergana Karadjova visited the “Investigative Research Laboratory,” which is part of the Center on Extremism at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN held a meeting with Alexander Rosemberg, Director of International Organizations and Outreach at ADL. The organization’s mission is to combat antisemitism, discrimination, and hate speech, as well as to promote justice and equality. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova visited the “Investigative Research Laboratory,” which is part of the Center on Extremism at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN held a meeting with Alexander Rosemberg, Director of International Organizations and Outreach at ADL. The organization’s mission is to combat antisemitism, discrimination, and hate speech, as well as to promote justice and equality. During the meeting, Alexander Rosemberg briefed Ambassador Karadjova on the organization’s work, history, and objectives. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has a long-standing history related to the fight against antisemitism and the protection of civil rights in the United States. The organization was founded in 1913 in Chicago as part of B’nai B’rith. ADL promotes the adoption of hate crime legislation and works with law enforcement agencies through training and expert support. The organization’s team consists of more than 500 staff members, and ADL maintains 25 offices across the United States. In the 1950s and 1960s, the organization expanded its activities beyond antisemitism to include broader civil rights issues. It participated in initiatives for racial equality and cooperated with leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. It supported key legislative acts such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. During the meeting, Rosemberg emphasized that the organization is open to various forms of cooperation and engagement of mutual interest in future projects. During the meeting, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova also provided clarification regarding the process for selecting the new Secretary-General of the United Nations and outlined Bulgaria’s priorities at the UN for the current year. “Respect for human rights is the foundation of every just and democratic society. Respect for different religions and cultures is an expression of mutual understanding and a guarantee of peaceful coexistence. It is our duty to remember the lessons of history, including tragedies such as the Holocaust, so that they are never repeated. Only through solidarity, tolerance, and responsibility can we build a better future for the next generations,” Ambassador Karadjova stated at the conclusion of the meeting. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47771 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47771 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:09:19 +0300 During the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, under the agenda item “Use of the veto”, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, expressed regret over the use of the veto in the Security Council and underlined the importance of the Veto Initiative as a key tool for transparency and accountability. During the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, under the agenda item “Use of the veto”, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova, expressed regret over the use of the veto in the Security Council and underlined the importance of the Veto Initiative as a key tool for transparency and accountability. Bulgaria expressed solidarity with the Gulf countries, condemned attacks against civilian infrastructure and shipping, and stressed the importance of maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Bulgaria called for de-escalation, respect for international law, and strengthened diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47835 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47835 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:25:29 +0300 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, represented Bulgaria at the regular monthly meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, held today in Luxembourg. During the meeting, ministers discussed key topics, including Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, the South Caucasus and Sudan. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, represented Bulgaria at the regular monthly meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, held today in Luxembourg. During the meeting, ministers discussed key topics, including Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, the South Caucasus and Sudan. During the discussions on Ukraine, Bulgaria emphasised the need for unity and consistent support from the EU and its allies. “The wars in Iran and Ukraine are interconnected and form an arc of instability spanning Europe and the Middle East. These parallel conflicts risk depleting resources and creating opportunities for coordinated actions against the rules-based international order. In this context, it is essential to work towards common positions within the EU and NATO, as any fragmentation weakens our collective response,” Minister Neynski stated. “The most important outcome of recent bilateral contacts was the signing of a 10-year Security Cooperation Agreement. A sovereign, stable and secure Ukraine is of key importance to the security of Europe as a whole,” the Bulgarian Foreign Minister further underlined. She also stressed the need for concrete action at the European level. “We must still fulfil our commitments under the 20th sanctions package and the loan in support of Ukraine. Their timely implementation is essential for maintaining trust in the EU. Strengthening our efforts to curb the activities of Russia’s shadow fleet remains a key priority in light of the risks to security and the environment,” Nadezhda Neynski added. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, also participated in the discussion via videoconference. In the afternoon, discussions were scheduled on the Middle East, during which Bulgaria expressed support for de-escalation efforts and emphasised the importance of diplomatic solutions. Particular focus was placed on the agreed ceasefire between the United States and Iran, and on the need for its preservation and effective implementation. Special attention was also given to the importance of ensuring free and secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as to the risks that any potential closure would pose to the global economy. Regarding the situation in Israel and Palestine, attention was directed towards ensuring that rising tensions do not divert focus from the humanitarian and political situation in Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Ministers also discussed developments in the South Caucasus, with Bulgaria reaffirming its support for the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The discussions addressed the agreements reached, which represent significant progress towards ending the long-standing conflict and open up opportunities for broader regional cooperation. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47837 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47837 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:31:06 +0300 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, met with the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia, Gordan Grlic Radman, in the framework of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, held in Luxembourg. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, met with the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia, Gordan Grlic Radman, in the framework of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, held in Luxembourg. During the discussion, the main items on the EU agenda were addressed, with a particular focus on the situation in the Middle East and the need for consistent coordination of European policies in the fields of external relations and security. Both sides underscored the importance of maintaining the unity of the Union, grounded in shared values and principles, and in the strict observance of international law. It was emphasised that, in the context of increasing global instability, a unified European approach remains essential for an effective response to crises and for safeguarding the EU’s strategic interests. Agreement was reached on the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to stabilise the situation in the Middle East and to prevent further escalation. The ministers also reaffirmed the importance of close coordination among Member States within the framework of the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47836 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47836 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:28:51 +0300 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, held a bilateral meeting with the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, Johann Wadephul, within the framework of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, held in Luxembourg. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadezhda Neynski, held a bilateral meeting with the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, Johann Wadephul, within the framework of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, held in Luxembourg. The two ministers discussed the current international situation, with a focus on developments in the Middle East, the need for de-escalation, and the continuation of diplomatic efforts to prevent the expansion of conflicts in the region. The implications for global security and energy stability were also addressed. The ministers underscored the importance of preserving the unity of the European Union, based on shared principles and values and the strict observance of international rules. It was emphasised that a unified European approach remains essential for effectively addressing global crises and for strengthening the international order. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47753 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/47753 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:27:32 +0300 On 17-18 April, the European Culture Street 2026 took place in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, under the motto “One Street, Many Stories”. The event was organized by the Delegation of the European Union to China, the EU Member States, and the governments of Zhejiang Province and Hangzhou. On 17-18 April, the European Culture Street 2026 took place in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, under the motto “One Street, Many Stories”. The event was organized by the Delegation of the European Union to China, the EU Member States, and the governments of Zhejiang Province and Hangzhou. The intensive program of the two-day event included a press conference by the EU Delegation for Chinese media; a group meeting between Mr. Liu Fei, member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee and CPC Secretary of Hangzhou, and the representatives of EU Member States, attended by Consul General Vladislav Spasov; the official opening of the event was marked with speeches by the member of the Leading Group of the Foreign Affairs Office of Zhejiang Province Mr. Xing Huidong, the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to China Matthias Lenz and the Ambassador of Cyprus to China Mrs. Koula Sophianou. Bulgaria participated in the cultural program with performances by Ms. Diane Gallardo de Tzanev (vocals) and the pianist Vladimir Tzanev. The exhibition of Bulgarian wines and cosmetic products with rose oil was organized at the pavilion presenting the EU-China Agreement on Geographical Indications by the Trade and Economic Consul Ms. Ivet Nikolova. Bulgaria tourism opportunities were presented at the Bulgarian stand together with cosmetic products with rose oil, yogurt with Bulgarian starter culture, food supplements, etc. Approximately 28 000 Chinese citizens visited the European Street of Culture 2026 in Hangzhou.