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/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:43:05 +0300 en hourly 1 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48600 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48600 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 16:38:01 +0300 In her statement during the United Nations General Assembly’s annual debate on the Responsibility to Protect, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova called for the more effective implementation of the Responsibility to Protect principle by strengthening the mandates of, and support for, the Secretary-General’s Special Advisers on the Prevention of Genocide and on the Responsibility to Protect. In her statement during the United Nations General Assembly’s annual debate on the Responsibility to Protect, Ambassador Gergana Karadjova called for the more effective implementation of the Responsibility to Protect principle by strengthening the mandates of, and support for, the Secretary-General’s Special Advisers on the Prevention of Genocide and on the Responsibility to Protect. Ambassador Karadjova also called for the fuller implementation of the Security Council’s working methods to ensure the earliest possible consideration of situations that present a potential risk of serious human rights violations, as well as for greater investment by UN Member States in early warning mechanisms and partnerships aimed at protecting civilian populations. Bulgaria reaffirmed its support for the Responsibility to Protect principle and called for full respect for the principles and norms of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, at a time when the number of armed conflicts and people at risk has reached an unprecedented level. Ambassador Gergana Karadjova also underscored the importance of ensuring accountability for violations of international law. “Conflict prevention and the prevention of mass human rights violations must remain our foremost priority,” Ambassador Karadjova emphasized. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48591 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48591 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:11:13 +0300 On July 6 2026, Nikola Nikolov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, held a meeting with Zareh Sinanyan, High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia. Artur Hovhannisyan, Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia in the Republic of Bulgaria, also attended the meeting. On July 6 2026, Nikola Nikolov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Armenia, held a meeting with Zareh Sinanyan, High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia. Artur Hovhannisyan, Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia in the Republic of Bulgaria, also attended the meeting. During the conversation, they discussed opportunities for further deepening bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Armenia, intensifying political dialogue, and implementing various joint initiatives. The Ambassador emphasized that the Armenian community is an integral and highly valued part of Bulgarian society—a symbol of the friendship and historical ties between Bulgaria and Armenia. The willingness of the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia to expedite certain Bulgarian cultural initiatives was also welcomed.   https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48589 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48589 Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:02:29 +0300 On the occasion of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy – 24 June 2026 – the Republic of Bulgaria took part in the fifth edition of the Not a Woman’s Job? exhibition series, dedicated to distinguished women-leaders of countries, societies and communities. The exhibition was organized at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, in collaboration between the United Nations Office at Geneva, UN Women and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director General of the United Nations Office at Geneva. On the occasion of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy – 24 June 2026 – the Republic of Bulgaria took part in the fifth edition of the Not a Woman’s Job? exhibition series, dedicated to distinguished women-leaders of countries, societies and communities. The exhibition was organized at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, in collaboration between the United Nations Office at Geneva, UN Women and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director General of the United Nations Office at Geneva. The initiative aims to facilitate the overcoming of the prejudices against the empowerment of women and their equality with men, through concrete examples of women who are successful leaders in the public and political life. Each participating country contributed with pictures and short presentation of one or two national representatives. The Republic of Bulgaria was represented by the President of the Republic, H. E. Ms. Iliana Iotova and the President of the 52nd National Assembly H. E. Ms. Mihaela Dotsova. The participation of the Republic of Bulgaria demonstrated unequivocally that our country applies the highest international standards with respect to gender equality, has serious achievements in this field, which can be shared with the world, and millions of talented Bulgarian women contribute daily to the well-being of our society. Around 50 UN member states took part in the exhibition. The opening ceremony was attended by the Permanent Representatives to the United Nations Office at Geneva of many countries, diplomats from their Permanent Missions, staff of the international organizations in Geneva and representatives of non-governmental organizations.   https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48605 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48605 Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:31:16 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva held a protocol meeting with Dai Qingli, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Bulgaria. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva held a protocol meeting with Dai Qingli, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Bulgaria. During the meeting, the participants outlined the priority areas for cooperation and the further development of the bilateral partnership, as well as concrete steps to strengthen cooperation within the framework of European Union-China relations. Both sides emphasised the importance of maintaining a constructive and open dialogue and highlighted the role of the newly established regular EU-China Trade and Investment Consultation Mechanism. The discussions also covered issues relating to the global security agenda and the need to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48581 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48581 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 14:52:11 +0300 On 1 July 2026 Ambassador Irena Gancheva paid a farewell call on the Chairman of the Senate of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani on the occasion of the conclusion of her diplomatic tour of duty in the country. On 1 July 2026 Ambassador Irena Gancheva paid a farewell call on the Chairman of the Senate of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani on the occasion of the conclusion of her diplomatic tour of duty in the country. During the meeting Mr. Gillani expressed his appreciation for Ambassador Gancheva's efforts to promote Bulgaria and foster dialogue and cooperation with Pakistan in areas of mutual interest. Particular emphasis was placed on the important role of parliamentary relations in expanding people-to-people contacts and enhancing exchanges in key fields such as economy, trade, education, science and culture. In this context, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation between their parliamentary institutions both on bilateral basis and within international fora which is expected to contribute to the continued development of the traditionally friendly relations between Bulgaria and Pakistan. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48604 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48604 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:29:37 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polenakov today received Vasco Mushe Samupofu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Namibia to the Republic of Bulgaria, resident in Vienna, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polenakov today received Vasco Mushe Samupofu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Namibia to the Republic of Bulgaria, resident in Vienna, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the meeting, the two discussed opportunities for deepening the political dialogue between Bulgaria and Namibia, as well as prospects for expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Particular emphasis was placed on education, economic and cultural ties, and the potential for developing trade and technological cooperation, including in the fields of energy technologies, fuel processing and mining. Deputy Minister Polenakov and Ambassador Samupofu also exchanged views on current international issues and highlighted the importance of constructive partnership within international organisations. The two sides reaffirmed their readiness to work towards strengthening bilateral relations and implementing new initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation between Bulgaria and Namibia. The meeting was also attended by Mihail Mihaylov, Honorary Consul of Namibia in Bulgaria. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48577 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48577 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:01:40 +0300 As part of a series of formal meetings aimed at establishing working relationships with the authorities in Belgium’s regions and provinces, on June 19, 2026, the Bulgarian Ambassador to Belgium, Natalia Uzunova, held a working meeting with the Governor of the Province of Walloon Brabant, Gilles Mahieu. On July 1, 2026 she met with the Governor of the Province of Hainaut, Tommy Leclercq. As part of a series of formal meetings aimed at establishing working relationships with the authorities in Belgium’s regions and provinces, on June 19, 2026, the Bulgarian Ambassador to Belgium, Natalia Uzunova, held a working meeting with the Governor of the Province of Walloon Brabant, Gilles Mahieu. On July 1, 2026 she met with the Governor of the Province of Hainaut, Tommy Leclercq. The visits to both Belgian provinces were organized with the kind assistance of the Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in Wallonia, Luc Sougné. During the Bulgarian Ambassador’s visit to the city of Wavre, she was briefed about the main activities and priorities for economic development in the province of Walloon Brabant. The discussion focused on the opportunities to promote trade between Bulgarian and Belgian companies, as well as to encourage investment. An additional meeting with the province’s Chamber of Commerce was planned. During the meeting in Mons, Governor Leclercq expressed his serious interest in deepening tourism exchanges and exploring opportunities to foster contacts between Bulgarian and Belgian tour operators. The Governor of the Province of Hainaut briefed the Bulgarian ambassador on the main functions of the governor’s office, the provincial government, and the provincial parliament of Hainaut. The two interlocutors discussed practical ways to strengthen further their traditionally excellent cooperation and to intensify contacts between Bulgaria and the province of Hainaut. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48603 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48603 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:27:59 +0300 Minister Velislava Petrova, met with Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, who is on an official visit to Bulgaria. Minister Velislava Petrova, met with Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, who is on an official visit to Bulgaria. The meeting focused on the protection of the rights of Bulgarian citizens abroad, one of Bulgaria’s foremost foreign policy priorities. Particular attention was devoted to cases of discrimination, intolerance and hate speech. Bulgaria’s top diplomat underscored the need for a European-level discussion on measures to counter such manifestations in order to safeguard citizens’ fundamental rights in accordance with the European Convention on Human Rights. “Bulgaria remains firmly committed to the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law,” Minister Petrova said. She also emphasised the importance Bulgaria attaches to its long-standing cooperation with the Council of Europe. She added that, for the current Government, it is essential to draw on the good practices of the Organisation’s member States in order to improve the standard of living of Bulgarian citizens. Commissioner O’Flaherty’s visit is focused on the situation of older persons living in residential care homes, with similar visits having been conducted in France and Romania. Minister Velislava Petrova highlighted the Government's commitment to significantly improving the system of care for older persons, including through the modernisation of residential care homes for the elderly. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48602 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48602 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:25:53 +0300 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, met with Christina de Bruin, UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria, on the occasion of the conclusion of her mandate and ahead of her departure from the country. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Velislava Petrova, met with Christina de Bruin, UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria, on the occasion of the conclusion of her mandate and ahead of her departure from the country. „“Thank you for the excellent cooperation, as well as for your dedicated commitment to advancing the cause of children’s rights and well-being,” Minister Petrova said during the meeting. Bulgaria’s top diplomat and Christina de Bruin shared the view that, against the backdrop of growing international conflicts and numerous global challenges, the protection of children’s rights must remain among the international community’s priorities. Velislava Petrova emphasised that investing in children is an investment in sustainable development and peace, and that the work of organisations such as UNICEF is particularly vital at a time when the international system is facing significant challenges. The discussion also focused on the risks that the digital environment poses to children. Both sides underlined the need for closer cooperation among states, international organisations and technology companies to ensure children’s online safety and to curb practices that expose them to harmful digital content. The meeting also addressed Bulgaria’s co-chairmanship of the Group of Friends of Children and the Sustainable Development Goals. Minister Petrova noted that these commitments reflect Bulgaria’s consistent support for promoting children’s rights within the United Nations. The participants also discussed the importance of Official Development Assistance (ODA) as a key instrument for supporting children and vulnerable communities. The UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria highlighted the significant progress Bulgaria has made in the field of children’s rights, noting that the country’s experience could serve as a valuable example for other countries. Both agreed that these achievements are also the result of the successful partnership between UNICEF and the Bulgarian institutions working in this field, which they expressed confidence would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48547 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48547 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:29:03 +0300 The presentation of “Time Shelter,” the first Bulgarian novel to win the 2023 International Booker Prize for Literature, took place on June 27 during Newmag Publishing’s Summer Fest 2026 at Yeraz Park in Yerevan. This is Gospodinov’s second novel to be translated into Armenian, following the publication of “The Physics of Sorrow” in Armenia in 2022. The presentation of “Time Shelter,” the first Bulgarian novel to win the 2023 International Booker Prize for Literature, took place on June 27 during Newmag Publishing’s Summer Fest 2026 at Yeraz Park in Yerevan. This is Gospodinov’s second novel to be translated into Armenian, following the publication of “The Physics of Sorrow” in Armenia in 2022. Summer Fest 2026 was the most anticipated summer literary, cultural, and sports festival in the capital of Armenia. This year, Newmag Publishing presented five new books, among which the novel “Time Shelter” by one of the most remarkable voices in Bulgarian and contemporary European literature—Georgi Gospodinov, was received with great interest. During the festival’s opening ceremony, Nikola Nikolov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria, delivered a welcoming speech to the organizers and guests. He noted that we are living today in perhaps the most uncertain times yet. Although the world has already witnessed and endured numerous pandemics, wars, and many other calamities, we are currently exposed to an unlimited flow of information; people have become small universes filled with fear and uncertainty, losing touch with reality and their inner personal compass. Gospodinov brilliantly reveals that it is precisely in this context that the past seems safe and serves as a shelter. The ambassador wished the Armenian audience an enjoyable read of the novel, with the hope of future encounters with other works by the distinguished Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov and other contemporary Bulgarian authors. Following the festival’s official opening, a literary discussion was held on the novel and on themes such as memory, time, and identity. The Armenian translation of “Time Shelter” was done by Gohar Abovyan, who also translated Gospodinov’s  “The Physics of Sorrow“ for the Armenian public, and the book’s main partner is Eurostan Uyut. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGPKebHFZ6k https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48538 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48538 Fri, 26 Jun 2026 17:44:44 +0300 On June 26, 1945, 50 countries signed the United Nations Charter at the San Francisco Conference. Today, 81 years later, the 193 member states of the United Nations share the responsibility for its implementation. On June 26, 1945, 50 countries signed the United Nations Charter at the San Francisco Conference. Today, 81 years later, the 193 member states of the United Nations share the responsibility for its implementation. On United Nations Charter Day Bulgaria reaffirms its commitment to implementing the principles and norms of the Charter and recalls that the Charter loses its value when applied selectively. This year the commemoration of the United Nations Charter Day will be marked by the convening of an informal meeting of the UN General Assembly in New York under the title “Better Together: One Charter, One Future”. The meeting was preceded by an opportunity for the UN Member States to sign the UN Charter as a symbolic expression of their commitment to it and their support for multilateralism. By participating in this special initiative, Bulgaria expressed its conviction that the United Nations and its Charter are getting increasingly relevant on the path to achieving peace and sustainable development. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48561 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48561 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:01:37 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova met with a delegation of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation of Bulgarian Orthodox Churches in Istanbul and Edirne, led by its Chairman Dimitri Yotef. Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova met with a delegation of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation of Bulgarian Orthodox Churches in Istanbul and Edirne, led by its Chairman Dimitri Yotef. During the meeting, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed her appreciation for the activities of the Foundation and its contribution to the preservation and development of the Bulgarian Orthodox community, as well as to the preservation of the Bulgarian cultural and historical heritage in the Republic of Türkiye. "We highly appreciate everything you do for the Bulgarian state. Through your activity, you preserve the historical memory of the Bulgarian community,” Minister Petrova stressed. She confirmed the consistent support of the Bulgarian state to the community of the Tsarigrad Bulgarians and the readiness to further deepen cooperation in the defense of Bulgaria's national interest. During the discussion, the current activity of the Foundation, the challenges it faces and the prospects for its future development in Istanbul and Edirne were also discussed. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48560 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48560 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:58:06 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova took part in the opening of the Third Regional Economic Conference of the American Chambers of Commerce of Bulgaria, Greece and Türkiye, which is being held in Sofia this year. The forum is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Economy, Investments and Industry in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Transformation, as well as the US Chamber of Commerce. In her welcoming speech, Minister Petrova stressed the importance of regional cooperation and the role of business as an engine of economic growth and connectivity in Southeast Europe and beyond. She noted that the partnership between the US Chambers of Commerce in Bulgaria, Greece and Türkiye for the third consecutive year shows that regional cooperation brings concrete results and creates sustainable development opportunities. "Bulgaria is a country that combines centuries-old history with a modern vision for the future and a clear commitment to growth in the interest of the people with the core capital of each country," Minister Velislava Petrova said. She pointed out that the geographical location of our country is a bridge between Europe, the Middle East and Asia and this is a key strategic advantage that creates opportunities for the development of transport, energy and economic connectivity, as well as socio-economic development. During the speech, special attention was given to technological development and artificial intelligence, where Bulgaria occupies an important place in the European innovation ecosystem. According to her, this creates prerequisites for attracting investments, increased development, scientific achievements and building high-tech companies with significant potential for long-term development. She also noted the importance of the conference in the context of the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of American independence and our common Bulgarian-American heritage, highlighting the advantages of the wide-ranging, dynamic and future-oriented strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the United States. Our top diplomat stressed the importance of people-to-people relations for international cooperation, economic growth and prosperity. Velislava Petrova also identified Bulgaria's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program and membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development as key priorities that will facilitate dialogue and contacts, help economic growth and improve the investment environment. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48563 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48563 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:05:06 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva participated in the tenth annual meeting of the Bulgarian Business Leaders Forum (BBLF), titled "Bulgaria and the opportunities for rapid economic transformation." The initiative brought together representatives of business, state institutions and the diplomatic corps to discuss the main factors for the country's economic growth and competitiveness. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva participated in the tenth annual meeting of the Bulgarian Business Leaders Forum (BBLF), titled "Bulgaria and the opportunities for rapid economic transformation." The initiative brought together representatives of business, state institutions and the diplomatic corps to discuss the main factors for the country's economic growth and competitiveness. In her statement, Deputy Minister Tasheva stressed the positive economic prospects for Bulgaria after joining the eurozone. She noted that the country maintains an economic growth rate above the eurozone average and has low government debt. Also, membership is already leading to a reduction in corporate finance costs. In her words, future growth should be based on more investment, higher productivity, promotion of exports and reduction of administrative burden. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs contributes to Bulgaria's economic transformation through the development of digital diplomacy and the establishment of the country as a destination for high-tech projects, innovation and skilled employment," Deputy Minister Tasheva said. According to her, active energy diplomacy and work in international organizations also play a key role in attracting investment and building the positive international image of the country. In conclusion, Deputy Minister Tasheva stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to work to establish Bulgaria as a secure and predictable partner and an attractive investment destination in support of the sustainable economic development of the country. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48566 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48566 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:14:39 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polendakov participated in the ceremony for announcing the results of the competition "Bulgarian Youth Delegates to the UN" for the 2026-2027 mandate. The new representatives of Bulgaria in the program are Niya Kozleva and Veselina Denchovska, and the deputy delegates are Nikol Tsvetanova and Tsvetan Krastev. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Hristo Polendakov participated in the ceremony for announcing the results of the competition "Bulgarian Youth Delegates to the UN" for the 2026-2027 mandate. The new representatives of Bulgaria in the program are Niya Kozleva and Veselina Denchovska, and the deputy delegates are Nikol Tsvetanova and Tsvetan Krastev. In his welcome address, Deputy Minister Polendakov stressed the importance of the initiative, which has been enabling young people in Bulgaria to be an active part of the global conversation on key international topics for two decades. "We are proud that Bulgaria is among only 40 countries in the UN system that provide such youth participation – a clear sign of our confidence in young people as an equal partner in the decision-making processes," he said. According to him, the sustained support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the program is an expression of the belief that young people have an important contribution in the formulation of policies and decisions both at national and international level. Deputy Minister Polendakov also highlighted the participation of a youth delegate from Bulgaria in the presentation of the Bulgarian Voluntary National Review on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in New York. The program "Bulgarian Youth Delegates to the United Nations," established in 2006 by the United Nations Association in Bulgaria and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is among the established mechanisms for promoting youth participation in international relations. It provides an opportunity for young Bulgarians to present the positions, ideas and priorities of their generation within the Organization. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48565 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48565 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:10:34 +0300 Minister Velislava Petrova hosted a solemn event on the occasion of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, within which the active work of the Network of Women Diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was launched. Minister Velislava Petrova hosted a solemn event on the occasion of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, within which the active work of the Network of Women Diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was launched. The initiative aims to provide the necessary platform for dialogue, mentoring and mutual support among generations of women in the Bulgarian diplomatic service. In her address, Minister Velislava Petrova stressed that diplomacy requires wisdom, patience and foresight – qualities that women in the profession prove on a daily basis. In her words, they contribute to building trust, promoting dialogue and strengthening international cooperation. Our first diplomat paid tribute to the generations of Bulgarian women diplomats who, with their professionalism and dedication, have contributed to establishing Bulgaria as a reliable European and international partner. Minister Petrova also recalled the contribution of the first Bulgarian woman diplomat Nadezhda Stanchova, a pioneer in the activities of the League of Nations and among the first women who paved the way for women's participation in international relations. The launch of the active work of the Network of Women Diplomats in Bulgaria confirms the commitment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthening the professional community of Bulgarian diplomats. Also the promotion of equal opportunities and the affirmation of continuity in the diplomatic service. The event was moderated by Deputy Minister Ivanka Tasheva and Zakia El Midaoui, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Morocco to Bulgaria and dean of the diplomatic corps, also welcomed the event. The celebration was attended by women – extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors accredited to our country, as well as members of the Network of Women Diplomats working at the Central Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48568 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48568 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:21:30 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva received at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the Ambassador of Georgia to the Republic of Bulgaria, Zurab Khamashuridze. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva received at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the Ambassador of Georgia to the Republic of Bulgaria, Zurab Khamashuridze. During the conversation, Deputy Minister Tasheva praised the fruitful and mutually beneficial cooperation between the Republic of Bulgaria and Georgia over the years and expressed readiness for its further deepening and upgrading in bilateral and multilateral terms, focusing on the development of economic relations. Deputy Minister Tasheva described Georgia as an important partner with which Bulgaria is working to maintain security and stability in the wider Black Sea region, especially in the context of the significantly changed geopolitical environment. In this context, she reaffirmed Bulgaria's unwavering support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Among the topics discussed were also the EU-Georgia relations. Deputy Minister Tasheva called on the Georgian government to return to the path of their democratic reforms by the end of 2023, so that the necessary restoration of trust between the EU and Georgia can begin. The two interlocutors agreed that Bulgaria and Georgia should continue to develop the active agenda of bilateral relations, focusing on the areas of security, connectivity and trade and economic cooperation. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48564 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48564 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:09:49 +0300 Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the 13th plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the South-East European Cooperation Process, which took place in Sofia. The event is under the motto "SEECP Parliamentary Assembly: interparliamentary dialogue, strengthening good neighbourliness and the European perspective of the region." Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova participated in the 13th plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the South-East European Cooperation Process, which took place in Sofia. The event is under the motto "SEECP Parliamentary Assembly: interparliamentary dialogue, strengthening good neighbourliness and the European perspective of the region." The forum coincides with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the SEECP and marks the end of the Bulgarian chairmanship of the Assembly. In her address to the participants, Minister Petrova stressed the importance of the strong and active parliamentary dimension as an integral part of the SEECP architecture. She stressed the role of national parliaments in strengthening democratic legitimacy, the sustainability of commitments made and the transformation of political decisions into real policies. "The theme of today's plenary session reflects the essence of our common political project. It is a call to the citizens of the region, to Europe and to the world that unity is our strategic resource, an instrument for security and a path to sustainable development,” Minister Petrova said. In conclusion, our top diplomat stressed that thirty years after the establishment of the SEECP, our region continues to prove that dialogue, good neighborly relations and the European perspective are the strongest instruments for stability and development. https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48567 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48567 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:21:27 +0300 Minister Velislava Petrova received a high-level delegation from the US Department of Homeland Security yesterday, led by John Gountanis, Deputy Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy and Planning. Representatives of the US State Department also took part in the meeting. Minister Velislava Petrova received a high-level delegation from the US Department of Homeland Security yesterday, led by John Gountanis, Deputy Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy and Planning. Representatives of the US State Department also took part in the meeting. The Bulgarian top diplomat stressed that he accepted the visit as an expression of serious recognition of Bulgaria's progress in meeting the technical requirements for security and that the abolition of visa requirements for tourist visas for Bulgarian citizens would ensure balance and mutual respect for each country's priorities, reflecting the strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the United States. The next steps for finalizing the process for Bulgaria's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program were discussed, including the fulfillment of the remaining legal requirements, the last of which is the achievement of a visa refusal rate below 3%.   https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48562 https://new.mfa.bg/en/news/48562 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:03:48 +0300 Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva took part in a public discussion on closing the Programme of the Bulgarian Chairmanship-in-Office of the SEECP (2025-2026): "Strengthening regional connectivity, economic growth and energy security." The discussion was organized by the Diplomatic Institute at the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Economic Policy Institute. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva took part in a public discussion on closing the Programme of the Bulgarian Chairmanship-in-Office of the SEECP (2025-2026): "Strengthening regional connectivity, economic growth and energy security." The discussion was organized by the Diplomatic Institute at the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Economic Policy Institute. During the opening, Deputy Minister Tasheva and the Director of the Diplomatic Institute Tanya Mihaylova addressed the participants. In her statement, Ivanka Tasheva said that during the presidency, Bulgaria focused its efforts on four key priorities that are both an opportunity and a challenge for the region. These include the future of Southeast Europe and building on the process of European integration of all participants aspiring to membership in the European Union. Other key areas are increasing the competitiveness of economies and investments in human capital, strengthening regional connectivity in the transport, digital, energy and interpersonal spheres, as well as increasing resilience against disinformation, cyberattacks, natural disasters and disruptions in supply chains and logistics. Ivanka Tasheva stressed that young people are the biggest advantage of the region and that investments in their education, skills and creativity are a prerequisite for sustainable growth and innovation. She also noted that concrete results have been achieved during the Bulgarian Presidency to strengthen transport, digital, energy and human connectivity. During the event, the country's key achievements, including the modernization and creation of new regional and international transport corridors, were discussed. The main priorities for Romania, the next SEECP Chairmanship-in-Office, were also discussed, including support in the process of EU expansion, promotion of the economic and social development of the region and security support related to combating disinformation and cyber threats.