site.btaUPDATED Crisis Headquarters Set Up over Middle East Situation Is Operating around the Clock - Deputy Foreign Minister

Speaking at a news briefing here on Wednesday, Deputy Foreign Minister Velizar Shalamanov said that the Foreign Ministry’s crisis headquarters set up over the Middle East situation was operating around the clock. The crisis headquarters' news briefing addressed the escalation of the security situation in the Middle East and the support of Bulgarian citizens in the region.

“Within the crisis headquarters team, we have the responsibility to carry out an actual operation, which we call “Sincere Care,” as the focus is on assisting every Bulgarian citizen who is in a difficult situation and unable to return home,“ Shalamanov noted. 

He added that the team is responding to all calls and emails.

A decision has been made to assist Bulgarians who wish to use paid charter flights at their own expense, Shalamanov said. He noted that people in areas outside the zones of military operations are receiving assistance with their documents.  “We cannot act as a backup airline operator and cover the costs,“ the Deputy Foreign Minister said.

Shalamanov said that all relevant institutions are doing everything necessary to support Bulgarian citizens affected by the situation in the Middle East. He also noted that the caretaker foreign minister remains in constant contact with his counterparts in the region.

Earlier, the crisis headquarters shared information about upcoming flights that will help Bulgarians return home.