https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/rss Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:42:11 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1113552-bas-chair-meets-algerian-ambassador-to-boost-scientific-cooperation https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1113552-bas-chair-meets-algerian-ambassador-to-boost-scientific-cooperation Fri, 24 Apr 2026 19:14:07 +0300 The Chair of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Corresponding Member Evelina Slavcheva, met on Friday with Algeria’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, Asma Babouche, the Academy’s press service reported. During the meeting, held at the Academy, the two discussed ways to strengthen scientific cooperation between Bulgaria and Algeria. Slavcheva presented the history and structure of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, while Ambassador Babouche introduced the activities of the Algerian Academy of Science and Technology. The talks also explored opportunities for signing a memorandum of cooperation between the two academies, as well as initiatives for researcher exchanges and joint cultural projects, the statement further added. Bulgaria Konstantin Karagyozov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1113214-eu-has-sufficient-reserves-of-aviation-fuel-says-transport-commissioner https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1113214-eu-has-sufficient-reserves-of-aviation-fuel-says-transport-commissioner Fri, 24 Apr 2026 15:05:33 +0300 The European Union has sufficient reserves of aviation fuel and can activate emergency stocks for a period of up to three months, said the EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, during his participation in the Delphi Economic Forum. In his remarks, Tzitzikostas focused on the energy crisis, linking the cancelled flights announced by some airlines more to rising fuel prices than to supply shortages. He noted that the current energy crisis is the largest in history and predicted a difficult summer. The EU Commissioner also commented that if the war in the Middle East does not end soon, the global consequences could be severe. He highlighted the EU's military mobility plan, which includes the modernization of 500 strategically important sites across Europe. Tzitzikostas also forecast a sharp decline in tourists travelling from Asia to Europe. The Delphi Forum will continue until Saturday, April 25. It includes over 200 discussions and panels with around 1,200 international speakers. Participants include representatives of governments, international organizations, academia, and business, with a focus on geopolitics, the economy, and technological transformations. World Valentin Evstatiev BTA correspondent Ivan Lazarov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1113147-four-bulgarians-join-eu-citizens-crisis-preparedness-online-debate https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1113147-four-bulgarians-join-eu-citizens-crisis-preparedness-online-debate Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0300 Four Bulgarians are among a total of 150 citizens from all EU member states meeting online from April 24 to 26 for the second session of the European Citizens' Panel on Preparedness. The discussions will help shape concrete ideas on how people across the EU can be better prepared for future shocks and will ensure that actions under the EU preparedness union strategy are inclusive and respond to citizens' needs. Participants are exploring in greater depth the priorities which they identified during their discussions in March. These include citizen engagement, education, solidarity and inclusion, integrity of communication (including combating the spread of disinformation and misinformation), and crisis management, as well as other areas related to preparedness across Europe. The plenary session can be followed live on the panel's website. The four Bulgarian participants are from Sofia, Burgas, Isperih, and Rebarkovo. Speaking to BTA, Antoaneta Petkova from Rebarkovo said: "I hope that in our group, which includes representatives from Germany, Italy, and Czechia, we will continue discussing the proposals we previously highlighted, namely the introduction of educational training for all ages, both theoretical and practical, on crisis response.” Petkova added that four other ideas on disaster and crisis response will also be discussed. World Valentin Evstatiev BTA special correspondent Lilyana Rashkova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1113048-two-killed-14-injured-in-drone-attack-in-odesa https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1113048-two-killed-14-injured-in-drone-attack-in-odesa Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:41:36 +0300 Two were killed and 14 injured in an overnight drone attack against the Black Sea city of Odesa, Southern Ukraine, Oleh Kiper, Head of the Odesa Regional Military Administration, said on his Telegram channel. Rescuers from the State Emergency Service in the Odesa region evacuated 36 residents, including two children, from the scene, Kiper said. The consequences of the Russian attack on Odesa include the destruction of residential areas and damage to a merchant ship flying the flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis, heading to one of the ports of Greater Odesa. A fire broke out on the ship but was quickly extinguished by the crew. There are no reports of casualties, Kiper said. According to his information, at least three residential buildings have sustained significant damage. Apartments and facades have been destroyed, and windows have been shattered. All relevant services are working to address the aftermath of the overnight attack. Bulgarians in Odesa Region number more than 150,000 and were the third largest population group in Ukraine in 2001, according to the official census. About 50,000 - 60,000 Bulgarians live in the city of Odesa. The largest compact Bulgarian population is concentrated in the Bolhrad, Izmail and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi districts. World Risida Dimitrova BTA correspondent Svetlana Dragneva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112494-deputy-energy-minister-in-delphi-eu-energy-security-needs-common-support-mechan https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112494-deputy-energy-minister-in-delphi-eu-energy-security-needs-common-support-mechan Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:52:01 +0300 If the European Union says that energy security is important, it should create a support mechanism, Deputy Energy Minister Teodora Georgieva said on Thursday during her participation in the 11th Delphi Economic Forum in Greece. According to her, crises often lead to closer cooperation between countries. She recalled that the energy crisis linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine began in 2022, while new challenges related to tensions surrounding Iran and restrictions on resources are once again highlighting the need for common European solutions and leadership. “All countries must think together and stand together in resolving crises,” Georgieva said. She highlighted the importance of energy security and infrastructure, noting that Bulgaria made one of its most important strategic decisions by signing a 25-year agreement with Azerbaijan, ensuring reliable natural gas supplies at competitive prices. Georgieva underlined that, following the commissioning of the Greece-Bulgaria Interconnector, Bulgaria activated reverse flow through the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline for the first time, which is of key importance for supplies to Ukraine. Bulgaria is connected to the Southern Gas Corridor through the Trans Adriatic Pipeline and the Greece-Bulgaria Interconnector, which is essential in times of crisis, she said. According to Georgieva, Bulgaria is also actively working on the development of the so-called Vertical Gas Corridor by expanding the capacity of its gas transmission infrastructure. This creates opportunities for transporting liquefied natural gas from Greece to Ukraine and strengthens Bulgaria’s role as a regional energy factor, she added. Georgieva noted that, amid the growing importance of energy security, the EU needs to establish support mechanisms for strategic infrastructure projects. In this regard, a joint letter is being prepared by the ministers of the countries participating in the Vertical Corridor, calling for European support and greater competitiveness of the route, including through so-called “bundled” products for reserving capacity along the entire route from Greece to Ukraine. As an important element of the energy mix, Georgieva pointed to natural gas, stressing that it is not possible to rely solely on renewable energy sources. “Hydrogen may come later, but let that happen later and let the market determine it,” she said. Georgieva also emphasized the need to develop nuclear energy, as well as the importance of long-term planning and proper positioning of the country in the energy sector. World Tatiana Marinova BTA correspondent Ivan Lazarov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112381-eu-gives-final-approval-to-ukraine-loan-expands-sanctions-against-russia https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112381-eu-gives-final-approval-to-ukraine-loan-expands-sanctions-against-russia Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:42:26 +0300 The Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU announced that on Thursday the approval process was completed for the granting of a EUR 90 billion loan to Ukraine and the expansion of sanctions against Russia. The decision had been expected in recent months and was delayed due to a lack of unanimity stemming from Hungary’s opposition.  On Wednesday, EU member states’ ambassadors reached unanimity, and on Thursday the written procedure on the final steps was completed. The first disbursement of funds to Ukraine will be made as soon as possible, an EU Presidency spokesperson said.  A statement by the Council of the EU notes that of the total loan amount, EUR 30 billion will be channelled towards covering Kyiv’s most urgent budgetary needs, while the remaining EUR 60 billion will be used to strengthen Ukraine’s defence industrial capacities. On Thursday, the Council also approved the European Commission’s proposal to make EUR 45 billion under the loan available in the second quarter of this year. In social media posts, European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomed Thursday's developments. The European strategy for achieving a just and lasting peace has two dimensions - strengthening Ukraine and increasing pressure on Russia, and today progress was made on both, Costa said. “While Russia doubles down on its aggression, we are doubling down on our support to the brave Ukrainian nation enabling Ukraine to defend itself and putting pressure on Russia’s war economy," von der Leyen wrote. Metsola described Thursday's decisions as important for safeguarding European security and achieving peace.   World BTA Correspondent Nikolay Jeliazkov, Metodi Yordanov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112342-energy-minister-highlights-importance-of-energy-infrastructure-and-supply-contra https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112342-energy-minister-highlights-importance-of-energy-infrastructure-and-supply-contra Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:20:00 +0300 Caretaker Energy Minister Traicho Traikov on Thursday highlighted the importance of energy infrastructure and supply contracts during his participation in the 11th Delphi Economic Forum, held in Delphi, Greece. "In the unstable situation of conflicts and wars in recent years, everyone is looking for ways to guarantee energy security. For countries that are net energy consumers, this means security of supply. For those exporting energy, it means security of markets. Now, with the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, we see how important this is," Traikov said. "I can note with satisfaction that Bulgaria has been preparing for years and is not unprepared in this situation. With the infrastructure developments of recent years – the interconnector with Greece, the expanded capacity with Turkiye, the interconnectors with Romania and Serbia, and the expansion at Sidirokastro in Greece – all these opportunities allow us to be much more flexible and able to respond to the situation in terms of routes," he added. Traikov took part in the panel "Engineering the Infrastructure of Energy Security" together with Sanja Bozinovska, Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources Minister of North Macedonia; Alexandros Exarchou, Chairman & CEO, Aktor Group of Companies, CEO, Atlantic SEE LNG Trade; Joshua Volz, Special Envoy for Energy Integration at the United States Department of Energy; and Vassilis Kazas, Managing Partner at Grant Thornton. The minister also stressed the importance of commercial agreements for energy quantities. "It became clear that the contract we worked hard on 15 years ago with Azerbaijan from the Caspian region is now very important for us because of its stable prices and guaranteed quantities. Now the potential lies in imports of liquefied natural gas, which has also been a topic of our recent talks. This is also the basis of the Vertical Gas Corridor, which starts from terminals in the Eastern Mediterranean, passes through Bulgaria and Romania, and reaches Ukraine," he said. "Bulgaria has key importance for the initiatives in the region. We approach this role with great responsibility and strive to derive maximum benefit from all these processes so that they lead to better prices for Bulgarian consumers of energy resources," Traikov added. The Delphi Economic Forum runs from April 22 to 25 and includes more than 200 discussions and panels with around 1,200 speakers from Greece, Europe and around the world. Participants include representatives of governments, international organizations, academia and business, with a focus on geopolitics, the economy and technological transformation. World Yoanna Vodenova BTA correspondent Ivan Lazarov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112182-andrey-gurov-to-participate-in-informal-meeting-of-eu-heads-of-state-and-governm https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1112182-andrey-gurov-to-participate-in-informal-meeting-of-eu-heads-of-state-and-governm Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:15:22 +0300 Prime Minister Andrey Gurov will participate in the informal meeting of the heads of state and government of the European Union Member States, which will take place in Cyprus on April 23-24, the Government Press Service said on Thursday. The meeting agenda includes discussions on the conflict in Iran and the situation in the Middle East, including the impact of the geopolitical environment on fossil fuel and energy prices. The EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework for the 2028-2034 period and the “One Europe, One Market” Roadmap aimed at supporting European competitiveness will also be discussed. The forum in Cyprus will also include a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as meetings with representatives of Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the President of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the statement said.  World Tatiana Marinova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1111624-government-approves-talks-on-f-16-industrial-cooperation-amendment https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1111624-government-approves-talks-on-f-16-industrial-cooperation-amendment Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:13:55 +0300 The caretaker Government authorized the ministers of Economy and Industry and Innovation and Growth to negotiate and sign a framework agreement between the Bulgarian Economy Ministry and Lockheed Martin concerning the F-16 Block 70 Industrial Cooperation Programme, the Council of Ministers said on Wednesday. In 2019, Bulgaria and the United States signed a contract for the acquisition of eight F-16 Block 70 fighter jets. The framework agreement envisages the implementation of six projects, five of which are already being successfully carried out in Bulgaria. One of the projects is set to be renegotiated so that it better reflects the specific needs of the Bulgarian Defence Ministry and provides greater added value for the country and its Armed Forces. The new project is expected to build on existing industrial capacity in Bulgaria for maintenance of components of the F-16 Block 70 system and will enable the country to carry out independent logistical support and operation of aircraft system components throughout their 30-year lifecycle. The project will also involve the transfer of know-how and technologies, which are expected to enhance the competitiveness of Bulgaria’s defence sector and support the development of products and services with potential demand on international markets. Bulgaria Veneta Litkova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111619-italian-and-greek-pms-congratulate-progressive-bulgaria-leader-radev-on-election https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111619-italian-and-greek-pms-congratulate-progressive-bulgaria-leader-radev-on-election Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:49:50 +0300 Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a phone conversation on Wednesday with Rumen Radev, congratulating him on Progressive Bulgaria's victory in the April 19 snap parliamentary elections in Bulgaria. She voiced Italy’s readiness to work closely with Bulgaria’s next regular cabinet. During the conversation, both sides highlighted the strong bilateral cooperation in the fields of economy, investment, and defence, the party’s press service said. Radev and Meloni also discussed a range of European Union agenda items, underscoring the two countries’ aligned positions on tackling illegal migration, strengthening the common agricultural policy, and shaping the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework. Later on Wednesday, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also congratulated the leader of Progressive Bulgaria on the election victory in a phone call. The importance of overcoming the political crisis in Bulgaria was emphasized as key for bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Greece, as well as for regional cooperation, according to the press release. Following the parliamentary elections held on April 19, President of the European Council Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also extended their congratulations to Rumen Radev on Progressive Bulgaria’s victory. World BTA Intern Theodora Lubenova Teodora Tsaneva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111649-cabinet-approves-draft-agreement-on-agricultural-science-and-technology-cooperat https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111649-cabinet-approves-draft-agreement-on-agricultural-science-and-technology-cooperat Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:41:16 +0300 The government Wednesday approved a draft agreement on cooperation in agricultural science and technology between Bulgaria's Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Uzbekistan's Ministry of Agriculture. The agreement is expected to expand bilateral cooperation by facilitating the exchange of scientists, researchers, and experts, promoting joint research projects and studies, and supporting the transfer of modern technologies, equipment, and agricultural machinery. World Yoana Vodenicharova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111542-oecd-chief-global-economy-under-growing-pressure-from-geopolitics-and-energy-pr https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111542-oecd-chief-global-economy-under-growing-pressure-from-geopolitics-and-energy-pr Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:05:37 +0300 The global economy is under increasing pressure due to geopolitical conflicts, trade barriers and rising energy prices, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Secretary-General Mathias Cormann said at the opening event of the 11th Delphi Economic Forum. According to him, in recent months the conflict in Iran and tensions in the Middle East have disrupted key trade routes, energy markets and household budgets, deepening the pressure initially triggered by Russia’s war against Ukraine. Cormann noted that in recent years the global economy has shown resilience, with growth at around 3%, but this resilience is now being tested. According to the OECD’s latest forecast, global growth is expected to reach 2.9% in 2026 and 3% next year, below the 3.3% recorded last year, while growth in the euro area is projected to slow to 0.8% this year before partially recovering to 1.2%. He stressed that alongside short-term challenges, there are also deep structural factors reshaping economies, including weak productivity growth, demographic changes and the need for labour efficiency. Cormann also highlighted the importance of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, noting that they must benefit everyone through broader access and skills development. The Delphi forum is taking place from April 22 to 25 and includes more than 200 discussions and panels with around 1,200 speakers from Greece, Europe and around the world. Participants include representatives of governments, international organizations, academia and business, with a focus on geopolitics, the economy and technological transformation. The forum was opened by Greek President Constantine Tassoulas. World Veneta Litkova BTA correspondent Ivan Lazarov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111507-japan-issues-strong-earthquake-warning-bulgarian-foreign-ministry-warns https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111507-japan-issues-strong-earthquake-warning-bulgarian-foreign-ministry-warns Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:17:00 +0300 Japan has issued a warning about a potentially strong earthquake with a magnitude of 8 or higher, which is likely to affect mainly the areas along the Kuril Trench and the Japan Trench over the coming week, the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on its website on Wednesday. Authorities in the country are urging citizens to obtain information about evacuation shelters and transport routes, to be ready with emergency kits, to secure furniture in their homes, and to stock up on necessary supplies, food, and water in preparation for the forecast large-scale seismic event. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that Bulgarian citizens residing in Japan or planning to travel to the country follow and comply with the recommendations of the local authorities, published and regularly updated on the website of the Japan Meteorological Agency. If crisis or consular assistance is needed, Bulgarian citizens may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Japan via the emergency duty phone: +81 80 7966 5608 or by email at: Embassy.Tokyo@mfa.bg. An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 occurred on the northeastern coast of Japan on April 20, the Japan Meteorological Agency reported at the time, as cited by Reuters. The areas most affected by the tremor were Hokkaido and Tohoku. World Kristina Ivanova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111083-overnight-drone-attack-targets-odesa-in-ukraine https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1111083-overnight-drone-attack-targets-odesa-in-ukraine Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:24:42 +0300 Odesa regional administration leader Oleg Kiper reported on Telegram on Wednesday explosions were heard across the city. More than 20 drones attacked the city from the Black Sea, according to local Telegram channels. Residents of Odesa were urged to hide in bomb shelters. An air raid alert was issued at 4:38 a.m. Bulgarians in the Odesa region number more than 150,000 and were the third largest population group in Ukraine in 2001, according to the official census. About 50,000 - 60,000 Bulgarians live in the city of Odesa itself. The largest compact Bulgarian population is concentrated in the Bolhrad, Izmail and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi districts. World BTA correspondent Svetlana Dragneva Nikolay Zabov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110996-kallas-calls-for-member-states-genuine-interest-in-cooperation-compromise-at https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110996-kallas-calls-for-member-states-genuine-interest-in-cooperation-compromise-at Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:24:39 +0300 It is important that everybody comes to this table with the genuine interest in cooperation and also compromise, because it requires compromising for everybody, said EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas at a press conference on Tuesday in response to a question regarding her expectations of Bulgaria's future government.  "Before we do not have a government in place, and we have not seen how the new government acts, we will no go or jump ahead of the events," she added. "And I think in the beginning everybody is treated with equal welcoming of new colleagues around the table to have agreements and cooperation with." All 27 European Union (EU) Member States are democracies in which people choose their future through elections, she pointed out.  Kallas said that the issue of expanding sanctions against Russia is expected to be revisited, and that the decision - which has been blocked by Hungary in recent months - is expected to be approved. World Momchil Rusev BTA correspondent Nikolay Jeliazkov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110933-foreign-ministers-of-bulgaria-croatia-discuss-need-of-consistent-coordination-o https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110933-foreign-ministers-of-bulgaria-croatia-discuss-need-of-consistent-coordination-o Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:17:36 +0300 Bulgarian caretaker Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky and Croatia's Foreign and European Affairs Minister Gordan Grlic Radman discussed on Tuesday the situation in the Middle East and the need for consistent coordination of European policies in the field of foreign relations and security. The two ministers spoke within the framework of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union, which was held in Luxembourg, the press centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported. The two sides stressed the importance of preserving the unity of the European Union, based on common values, principles and strict adherence to international law. It was stressed that in conditions of increasing global instability, it is the unified European approach that remains key to effective response to crises and to protecting the EU's strategic interests. During the meeting, agreement was reached on the need to strengthen diplomatic efforts to stabilize the situation in the Middle East and prevent further escalation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added. Neynsky and Radman confirmed the importance of close coordination between member states within the framework of the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy.   World Liliya Yordanova Atanas Malakchiev https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1110842-museum-of-sonoma-county-to-mark-50th-anniversary-of-running-fence-by-christo-and https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1110842-museum-of-sonoma-county-to-mark-50th-anniversary-of-running-fence-by-christo-and Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0300 An exhibition celebrating "one of the most ambitious artworks of the 20th century" will open this summer, as the Museum of Sonoma County marks 50 years since the creation of Running Fence by Christo and Jeanne-Claude, the Christo and Jeanne-Claude Foundation said. Titled Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Running Fence at 50 Years, the exhibition will run from June 27 to November 8, 2026, commemorating the monumental temporary installation completed in September 1976. The original artwork stretched 24.5 miles across 59 properties in Sonoma and Marin counties, reaching the Pacific Ocean, and remains a landmark in contemporary art. The exhibition revisits the scale and complexity of the four-year project, which brought together hundreds of participants - from local ranchers to engineers and students - to realize an 18-foot-high white fabric fence across the Northern California landscape. Curators say the project was as much about process as the final installation. The artists’ approach incorporated public hearings, regulatory battles and community engagement as integral elements of the work itself. The project required 18 public hearings and one of the first environmental impact reports ever conducted for an artwork. Despite initial skepticism, local landowners played a crucial role, granting access across dozens of properties and ultimately supporting the project. Around 400 workers and students contributed to the installation, stretching vast amounts of fabric across the terrain using more than 2,000 steel poles. The exhibition will feature original artworks by Christo on loan from the Christo and Jeanne-Claude Foundation, alongside materials from the museum’s permanent collection, including components used in the original installation. Organizers say the display aims to immerse visitors in both the visual impact and the collaborative effort behind the project. Beyond its artistic significance, Running Fence is widely credited with reshaping the cultural identity of Sonoma County, helping transform it into a recognized center for art and creative expression. The anniversary programme will include a public opening on June 27, a reunion and celebration event in September, and a screening of a documentary about the project later that month. Born on the same day in 1935, Christo - originally from Bulgaria - and Jeanne-Claude collaborated on large-scale environmental artworks around the world for decades. Their projects, from wrapped landmarks to vast outdoor installations, emphasized impermanence, public interaction and the transformation of everyday landscapes. Organizers say the new exhibition aims to introduce a new generation to the story of Running Fence - not only as a striking visual achievement, but as a rare example of art built through persistence, negotiation and community involvement.  Culture https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110768-bulgarian-german-foreign-ministers-discuss-eu-unity-middle-east-situation https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110768-bulgarian-german-foreign-ministers-discuss-eu-unity-middle-east-situation Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:43:16 +0300 Foreign Ministers Nadezhda Neynsky of Bulgaria and Johann Wadephul of Germany on Tuesday discussed EU unity and the Middle East situation on the sidelines of a EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg, Neynsky's Ministry said on Tuesday. The two chief diplomats talked about the current international situation, with a focus on developments in the Middle East, the need for de-escalation and continued diplomatic efforts to prevent the spread of conflicts in the region. They also examined the implications for global security and energy stability. The foreign ministers stressed the importance of maintaining EU unity based on shared principles and values and strict adherence to international rules. They emphasized that a unified European approach remains key to effectively addressing global crises and strengthening international order. World Veneta Litkova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110722-caretaker-transport-minister-ismailov-calls-for-eu-crisis-support-for-transport- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110722-caretaker-transport-minister-ismailov-calls-for-eu-crisis-support-for-transport- Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:34:25 +0300 EU-wide anti-crisis measures are needed, including support for transport operators and safeguards for energy security and fuel supplies, caretaker Transport and Communications Minister Korman Ismailov says Tuesday. He was speaking at an informal EU meeting on the impact of the Middle East crisis on transport. The Ministry of Transport and Communications press service said Ismailov took part in an informal videoconference meeting of the EU Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council, devoted to the consequences of the crisis in the Middle East and national measures to reduce its negative effects. “Because of its geographic proximity and its role as a transit hub between Europe and Asia, Bulgaria is facing serious logistical and economic challenges,” Ismailov said. He added that the transport sector was among the hardest hit by the Middle East crisis, which, because of its key role in the economy, had a strong effect on the prices of a range of goods and services. “Since the start of the military conflict in the Gulf, fuel prices have jumped by more than 40% for diesel and more than 20% for petrol, an increase that has pushed many companies to the brink of survival. This is causing a chain rise in costs across the logistics system, creating a risk to jobs and threatening the normal functioning of supplies,” Ismailov said. Common European measures were essential to prevent market distortions and a deepening of inequalities among member states. Effective coordination at EU level had to include an agreed package of anti-crisis measures to be applied in all member states, as well as mechanisms for the rapid exchange of information and good practices. “Such an approach will help avoid fragmentation and provide greater predictability and stability for the EU transport sector,” Ismailov added. Measures aimed at supply security and price stability were urgently needed. These included ensuring energy security and stock management, fiscal and economic relief, and improving logistical resilience. “I believe that through joint efforts and solidarity within the EU, we will be able to turn these challenges into an opportunity to build a more modern and resilient European transport system,” Ismailov said. World Kaloyan Kirilov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110665-minister-neynsky-takes-part-in-eu-s-foreign-affairs-council-meeting-in-luxembour https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1110665-minister-neynsky-takes-part-in-eu-s-foreign-affairs-council-meeting-in-luxembour Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:14:21 +0300 Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky represented Bulgaria at the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council meeting, held in Luxembourg on Tuesday, the Ministry’s press service said. Ministers discussed key issues, including Russia’s war against Ukraine, as well as developments in the Middle East, the South Caucasus, and Sudan. During the discussion on Ukraine, Bulgaria stressed the importance of unity and sustained support from the EU and its allies. “The wars in Iran and Ukraine are interconnected, forming an arc of instability stretching across Europe and the Middle East. These parallel conflicts risk draining resources and creating opportunities for coordinated actions against the rules-based international order. In this context, it is crucial to maintain common positions within the EU and NATO, as any fragmentation weakens our collective response,” Neynsky said. “The most important outcome of recent bilateral contacts was the signing of a 10-year agreement on security cooperation. A sovereign, stable, and secure Ukraine is essential to Europe’s overall security,” she added. Neynsky underscored the need for concrete action at the European level. “We must still deliver on our commitments under the 20th sanctions package and the loan in support of Ukraine. Their timely implementation is vital for maintaining trust in the EU. Stepping up efforts to counter Russia’s shadow fleet remains a key priority, given the risks it poses to both security and the environment,” she said. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, joined the discussion via videoconference. Later in the day, ministers will discuss the situation in the Middle East. Bulgaria is expected to support de-escalation efforts and stress the importance of diplomatic solutions. Particular attention will be given to maintaining and effectively implementing the agreed ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Ministers will also address the importance of ensuring free and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the potential global economic risks if it were to be closed. Regarding Israel and Palestine, discussions will focus on ensuring that rising tensions do not overshadow the humanitarian and political situation in Gaza and the West Bank. Ministers will also review developments in the South Caucasus. Bulgaria is expected to reaffirm its support for the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, with ministers discussing recent agreements that mark significant progress toward resolving the long-standing conflict and creating new opportunities for regional cooperation, the press release said. World Yoana Vodenicharova