site.btaUPDATED BSP Leader Zafirov Puts Statehood and Responsibility Centre Stage at Buzludzha Gathering

Deputy Prime Minister and Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) National Council Chair Atanas Zafirov told BTA's Pavlina Dudeva on Saturday, ahead of the traditional national gathering of the left on the historical meadow at Buzludzha, that the messages to be heard from the summit would be of statehood, stability and national responsibility. He noted that the BSP now takes its cues as a responsible governing political force.

“This year, we are marking our traditional gathering on the very historic date, August 2 – 134 years since the beginning of the organized socialist movement in Bulgaria,” Zafirov said. He added that this is not simply a gathering, but a tribute to the ideas championed by the movement’s pioneers 134 years ago, and that these ideas remain especially relevant today. 

“These are the ideas of social justice, equality, freedom and peace,” Zafirov said. He underlined the importance of this year's event, which is being held under the motto “Buzludzha – History and Future”. “We come to this gathering not merely to pay tribute and to remember, but also to build upon our heritage,” he said.

Zafirov noted that a BSP national conference took place in Stara Zagora on Friday. He noted that the thirteenth member of the BSP-United Left coalition, Agrarian Union Aleksandar Stamboliyski, was formally added at the conference.

Zafirov went on to say that “the left has not only a glorious past and heroic present, but also a great future.” He affirmed that the party insists on a State where people, not capital, are at the centre of attention.

BTA notes that the National Political Rally is expected to bring together party members and supporters, but also guests from other political formations and youth organizations. Folk and amateur groups from across the country will present Bulgaria’s musical heritage. Wreaths and flowers will be laid at the monument to Hadzhi Dimitar, at the bas-relief of the party’s founders, and at the monument to the partisans of the Gabrovo-Sevlievo Detachment.

Zafirov said in an interview for Nova TV that he is optimistic about the left coalition's future, which goes through solid performance in the presidential elections scheduled for 2026. He added: "We are entering this battle with confidence."