The Indian Navy has evacuated a bruised sailor from a Malta-flagged hijacked vessel off the coast of Somalia. Indian Navy aircraft and warship respond to hijacked Maltese ship's mayday call in Arabian Sea.

Indian Navy rescues injured Bulgarian sailor, flown to Oman for treatment | World News | WION

The Indian Navy has evacuated an injured sailor from a hijacked vessel that appeared to be based out of Malta. The personnel from Malta-flagged vessel was rescued off the coast of Somalia, Press Trust of India reported.

The sailor is a Bulgarian national. He was reportedly one of the&nbsp;18 crew members onboard the cargo ship and was injured in firing by the pirates.

The Bulgarian national&nbsp;was evacuated by frontline ship INS Kochi and was further transported for being provided&nbsp;urgent medical assistance.

"The Indian Navy rendered assistance in evacuation of an injured crew member from the hijacked vessel MV Ruen in the early hours of Monday," PTI quoted an official as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-averts-hijacking-crisis-in-arabian-sea-rescues-malta-flagged-vessel-670242">Indian Navy rushes to rescue Malta-flagged vessel under attack by pirate group</a>

"The injured crew member had sustained injuries during the piracy incident but was reported to be stable… The injured crew member was medically managed onboard the ship but due to urgent medical attention required, which was beyond the scope of the ship, he has been transferred ashore at Oman," the official further said.

Indian Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal told the Press Trust of India that the country's&nbsp;naval forces remain committed to render assistance to the mariners at sea.

<h2>Indian Navy rescues mariner off Somalia Coast: How did it happen?</h2>

Indian Navy responded to a distress call and swiftly deployed&nbsp;frontline ship INS Kochi as well as an aircraft. The Indian Navy's maritime patrol aircraft further conducted surveillance missions in the area while its warship on anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden was pressed to locate and assist MV Ruen.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian Navy's sea dragons played crucial roles in classified missions

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"The aircraft overflew the hijacked vessel early December 15 and the aircraft has been continuously monitoring movement of the vessel, which is now heading towards the coast of Somalia," the Navy statement said, adding the Naval warship intercepted MV Ruen on the morning of December 16.

India is a signatory to the&nbsp;United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and is committed to assist civil mariners.&nbsp;

The Article 98 of the UNCLOS specifies duty of the signatories to 'render assistance'.&nbsp;

"Every State shall require the mast&nbsp;of a ship flying its flag, in so far as he can do so without serious danger to the ship, the crew or the passengers," it says.

Under Article 98 (1) (c), the signatories are committed to "proceed with all possible speed to the rescue of persons in distress, if informed of their need of assistance."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Navy has evacuated an injured sailor from a hijacked vessel that appeared to be based out of Malta. The personnel from Malta-flagged vessel was rescued off the coast of Somalia, Press Trust of India reported.

The Indian Navy has evacuated an injured sailor from a hijacked vessel that appeared to be based out of Malta. The personnel from Malta-flagged vessel was rescued off the coast of Somalia, Press Trust of India reported. The sailor is a Bulgarian national. He was reportedly one of the 18 crew members onboard the cargo ship and was injured in firing by the pirates. The Bulgarian national was evacuated by frontline ship INS Kochi and was further transported for being provided urgent medical assistance. "The Indian Navy rendered assistance in evacuation of an injured crew member from the hijacked vessel MV Ruen in the early hours of Monday," PTI quoted an official as saying. Also read | Indian Navy rushes to rescue Malta-flagged vessel under attack by pirate group "The injured crew member had sustained injuries during the piracy incident but was reported to be stable… The injured crew member was medically managed onboard the ship but due to urgent medical attention required, which was beyond the scope of the ship, he has been transferred ashore at Oman," the official further said. Indian Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal told the Press Trust of India that the country's naval forces remain committed to render assistance to the mariners at sea. Indian Navy rescues mariner off Somalia Coast: How did it happen? Indian Navy responded to a distress call and swiftly deployed frontline ship INS Kochi as well as an aircraft. The Indian Navy's maritime patrol aircraft further conducted surveillance missions in the area while its warship on anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden was pressed to locate and assist MV Ruen. Also watch | Indian Navy's sea dragons played crucial roles in classified missions × "The aircraft overflew the hijacked vessel early December 15 and the aircraft has been continuously monitoring movement of the vessel, which is now heading towards the coast of Somalia," the Navy statement said, adding the Naval warship intercepted MV Ruen on the morning of December 16. India is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and is committed to assist civil mariners. The Article 98 of the UNCLOS specifies duty of the signatories to 'render assistance'. "Every State shall require the mast of a ship flying its flag, in so far as he can do so without serious danger to the ship, the crew or the passengers," it says. Under Article 98 (1) (c), the signatories are committed to "proceed with all possible speed to the rescue of persons in distress, if informed of their need of assistance." (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Navy becomes saviour for Bulgarian national stuck on hijacked ship

At least 33 police officers and 24 football fans were injured in clashes outside the stadium where Bulgaria were playing a Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary, authorities said Friday. UEFA had ordered Thursday's game in Sofia to be played behind closed doors after a request by the national federation, which feared trouble following a supporters' call for a major protest against the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) and its long-time president Borislav Mihaylov.

But around 4,000 supporters gathered outside the national stadium and some involved in the demonstrations suffered broken limbs in the clashes. "Twenty-four injured were examined, including seven who were hospitalised with head traumas, broken legs and arms and many who were gassed with pepper spray," Katya Sungarska, a spokeswoman for the national emergency centre, told AFP Friday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-selector-george-bailey-hits-back-at-johnson-for-uncomfortable-remarks-against-david-warner-665740">Chief selector George Bailey hits back at Johnson for ‘uncomfortable remarks’ against David Warner</a>

"The injured police are 33, there are some with serious injuries and hospitalised," Stefan Ivanov, deputy chief of the Sofia police directorate, said at a briefing. Thirty-three football fans were detained last night and arrests were still being made, he said, slamming the violence as "an unprecedented violation of public order with serious aggression and posing high risk".

Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov said he would consult UEFA about their assessment of the organisation of the event and the decision to shut the stadium to fans. "Yesterday we witnessed ugly scenes of violence. Their main cause is the long-standing management of the Bulgarian Football Union which led to a decline of Bulgarian football, without any prospects for development," Denkov told journalists.

But he refrained from directly calling for Mihaylov's resignation. Several politicians have already demanded the 60-year-old former goalkeeper for the national team to quit immediately but the BFU has not commented. The prime minister sacked the deputy minister of the interior after he allowed fans from rival clubs to gather in one location.

<h2>Fans' anger</h2>

Police said supporters from Sofia's arch rivals CSKA and Levski as well as fans from Plovdiv and Varna has gathered outside the stadium on Thursday. They shouted "Resign!" and held banners "18 years is enough" to call for Mihaylov to stand down, accusing him of corruption and leading Bulgarian football into an unprecedented decline.

Violent clashes erupted after groups of masked fans started to throw smoke bombs, pavement blocks, stones and beer bottles at police lines.&nbsp;Over 1,500 policemen in full anti-riot gear were in place to ensure security.

Two water cannons were deployed to disperse the crowd -- a measure used relatively rarely in the Balkan country. An AFP reporter saw at least seven fans with head injuries after police pushed away the supporters, who set fire to a police van and several garbage containers.

Fans' anger has built up in recent years over the poor results of the national team that has failed to qualify for any major tournaments and went through numerous coaches during Mihaylov's time at the helm of the federation.

The controversial president quit in 2019 but then withdraw his resignation and was re-elected in 2021, despite a record marred by suspicions of match-fixing and a racist abuse scandal during a match against England in 2019. Hungary qualified for the finals as a result of the 2-2 draw on Thursday. Despite the point Bulgaria achieved, they are last in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, with three points from seven games.

At least 33 police officers and 24 football fans were injured in clashes outside the stadium where Bulgaria were playing a Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary, authorities said Friday.

At least 33 police officers and 24 football fans were injured in clashes outside the stadium where Bulgaria were playing a Euro 2024 qualifier against Hungary, authorities said Friday. UEFA had ordered Thursday's game in Sofia to be played behind closed doors after a request by the national federation, which feared trouble following a supporters' call for a major protest against the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) and its long-time president Borislav Mihaylov. But around 4,000 supporters gathered outside the national stadium and some involved in the demonstrations suffered broken limbs in the clashes. "Twenty-four injured were examined, including seven who were hospitalised with head traumas, broken legs and arms and many who were gassed with pepper spray," Katya Sungarska, a spokeswoman for the national emergency centre, told AFP Friday. Also Read: Chief selector George Bailey hits back at Johnson for ‘uncomfortable remarks’ against David Warner "The injured police are 33, there are some with serious injuries and hospitalised," Stefan Ivanov, deputy chief of the Sofia police directorate, said at a briefing. Thirty-three football fans were detained last night and arrests were still being made, he said, slamming the violence as "an unprecedented violation of public order with serious aggression and posing high risk". Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov said he would consult UEFA about their assessment of the organisation of the event and the decision to shut the stadium to fans. "Yesterday we witnessed ugly scenes of violence. Their main cause is the long-standing management of the Bulgarian Football Union which led to a decline of Bulgarian football, without any prospects for development," Denkov told journalists. But he refrained from directly calling for Mihaylov's resignation. Several politicians have already demanded the 60-year-old former goalkeeper for the national team to quit immediately but the BFU has not commented. The prime minister sacked the deputy minister of the interior after he allowed fans from rival clubs to gather in one location. Fans' anger Police said supporters from Sofia's arch rivals CSKA and Levski as well as fans from Plovdiv and Varna has gathered outside the stadium on Thursday. They shouted "Resign!" and held banners "18 years is enough" to call for Mihaylov to stand down, accusing him of corruption and leading Bulgarian football into an unprecedented decline. Violent clashes erupted after groups of masked fans started to throw smoke bombs, pavement blocks, stones and beer bottles at police lines. Over 1,500 policemen in full anti-riot gear were in place to ensure security. Two water cannons were deployed to disperse the crowd -- a measure used relatively rarely in the Balkan country. An AFP reporter saw at least seven fans with head injuries after police pushed away the supporters, who set fire to a police van and several garbage containers. Fans' anger has built up in recent years over the poor results of the national team that has failed to qualify for any major tournaments and went through numerous coaches during Mihaylov's time at the helm of the federation. The controversial president quit in 2019 but then withdraw his resignation and was re-elected in 2021, despite a record marred by suspicions of match-fixing and a racist abuse scandal during a match against England in 2019. Hungary qualified for the finals as a result of the 2-2 draw on Thursday. Despite the point Bulgaria achieved, they are last in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, with three points from seven games.

Clashes erupt outside Bulgaria stadium during Euro 2024 qualifier, dozens of people injured

Hungary qualified for the Euro 2024 finals with a game to spare after a last-gasp own goal from Alex Petkov earned them a 2-2 away draw against Bulgaria in their qualifying Group G on Thursday.

The result put them on top of the group with 15 points from seven games, with an unassailable four-point lead over third-placed Montenegro.

Hungary took the lead through Martin Adam's close-range header following a free kick from captain Dominik Szoboszlai from the right after 10 minutes.

Marco Rossi's squad seemed close to doubling their lead, but on Bulgaria's first chance, Spas Delev scored with a shot into the top right corner to make it 1-1 in the 24th minute.

The hosts were dealt a blow before halftime when they were reduced to nine men after red cards for Valentin Antov and Ilia Gruev, but the VAR intervened to overturn the latter and keep hopes of a Bulgarian comeback alive.

Hungary were also reduced to 10 men early in the second half when Milos Kerkez was sent off and suffered a major setback in the 78th minute as Kiril Despodov scored with a penalty to give Bulgaria a 2-1 lead.

As Hungary got close to suffer their first defeat in a year, Petkov headed in his own goal from a corner seven minutes into stoppage time to send his team into their third consecutive European championship finals.

Montenegro secured a 2-0 win at home against Lithuania on Thursday, courtesy of goals from Edvin Kuc and Stevan Jovetic.

Hungary will host Montenegro on Sunday.

Hungary qualified for the Euro 2024 finals with a game to spare after a last-gasp own goal from Alex Petkov earned them a 2-2 away draw against Bulgaria in their qualifying Group G on Thursday.

Hungary qualified for the Euro 2024 finals with a game to spare after a last-gasp own goal from Alex Petkov earned them a 2-2 away draw against Bulgaria in their qualifying Group G on Thursday. The result put them on top of the group with 15 points from seven games, with an unassailable four-point lead over third-placed Montenegro. Hungary took the lead through Martin Adam's close-range header following a free kick from captain Dominik Szoboszlai from the right after 10 minutes. Marco Rossi's squad seemed close to doubling their lead, but on Bulgaria's first chance, Spas Delev scored with a shot into the top right corner to make it 1-1 in the 24th minute. The hosts were dealt a blow before halftime when they were reduced to nine men after red cards for Valentin Antov and Ilia Gruev, but the VAR intervened to overturn the latter and keep hopes of a Bulgarian comeback alive. Hungary were also reduced to 10 men early in the second half when Milos Kerkez was sent off and suffered a major setback in the 78th minute as Kiril Despodov scored with a penalty to give Bulgaria a 2-1 lead. As Hungary got close to suffer their first defeat in a year, Petkov headed in his own goal from a corner seven minutes into stoppage time to send his team into their third consecutive European championship finals. Montenegro secured a 2-0 win at home against Lithuania on Thursday, courtesy of goals from Edvin Kuc and Stevan Jovetic. Hungary will host Montenegro on Sunday.

Hungary qualify for Euro 2024 with dramatic 2-2 draw against Bulgaria

Putin has made Ukraine’s NATO ambitions & the bloc's eastward expansion the principal grounds for the Russian invasion of 2022. NATO members say Russia’s war has backfired, with Finland having joined the alliance & Sweden awaiting formal entry. The policy shift ended decades of both nations' respective non-aligned status. However, Slovakia, Bulgaria & Hungary have stood out as particularly pro-Russia in their attitudes. Bulgaria’s previous government had to secretly provide Kyiv with ammunition & fuel, concealing the facts from the public. After a call to send s-300 air defence systems to Ukraine, Bulgaria's pro-Russian president recently criticised the government & the parliament alike for becoming what he called donors to foreign armies. Hungary has officially refused to deliver arms to Ukraine, echoing the popular belief that doing so would drag these countries into the conflict. Remember, Hungary joined NATO in 1999, while Bulgaria & Slovakia joined the alliance in 2004.

NATO wrong on Russia's war backfiring? Slovakia, Bulgaria & Hungary pro-Russia in their attitudes

Bulgaria’s parliament has decided to send s-300 air defence missile systems to Ukraine, its first such shipment to Kyiv from a country bitterly divided over the issue. After World War Two, Bulgaria became a satellite of the Soviet Union, but is now a member of the European Union and NATO. Most middle-aged Bulgarians studied Russian in school, understand the language and some regularly follow the news in the Russian media.

'Russians our Slavic brothers': War tests pro-Putin sentiment in Bulgaria | S-300s for Ukraine

NATO's multinational battle group in Bulgaria has completed a set of drills. Bulgarian troops performed exercises with six NATO nations.

US: Exercise to understand Bulgarian terrain

Floods in Greece, Turkey, and Bulgaria killed at least 14, leaving dozens injured and 5 missing. Watch the video to know more.

Torrential rains kill over 14 in Greece, Turkey & Bulgaria

Fierce rainstorms wreak havoc across Bulgaria, Turkiye and Greece, triggering severe floods, claiming at least 5 lives.

At least 5 dead as severe rainstorms floods hit Bulgaria, Turkey & Greece | WION Climate Tracker

Bulgaria is celebrating its eleventh kite festival. Now the interesting bit about the festival is that the kites follow the migratory route of birds along the nation's black sea coast, highlighting the importance of environmental protection of their important habitats.

Kite festival on black sea coast follows path of migratory birds

Members of an international religious movement called the Universal White Brotherhood perform a cosmic energy ritual in Bulgaria.

'White Brotherhood' mountain dance: Celebrating spiritual new year

Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the international monetary fund, said her homeland, Bulgaria, was destined to enter the Eurozone despite political deadlock over the past three years... That deadlock has hampered the nation’s bid to join Europe’s single currency. Bulgaria, along with Croatia, joined the Euro-area’s waiting room, known as ERM-2, in 2020. But unlike Croatia, which adopted the Euro in January, Bulgaria, in recent years, has been plagued by political upheaval.

IMF chief backs Bulgaria's Euro zone integration plan

Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has expressed confidence that her home country Bulgaria will ultimately join the Euro zone, despite political obstacles that have hindered the nation's bid for the past three years.&nbsp;

Speaking at a joint IMF and Croatian central bank conference in Dubrovnik, Georgieva emphasized that Bulgaria's entry into the Euro zone is a matter of "when, not if".&nbsp;

Bulgaria, alongside Croatia, entered the Euro-area's waiting room, called ERM-2, in 2020. While Croatia successfully adopted the Euro in January, Bulgaria, a former Soviet satellite state in Eastern Europe, had to abandon its initial goal of joining the Euro zone by 2024 due to political turmoil.&nbsp;

Georgieva pointed out that Croatia's more stable political environment, exemplified by the re-election of prime minister Andrej Plenkovic in the 2020 general election, played a significant role in the country's successful transition. She stressed the need for political will and societal unity during challenging times, underscoring that such conditions can lead to favorable outcomes.&nbsp;

“The contrast between Croatia and Bulgaria shows that where there’s political will, and where society is united, even in the hardest times, a good outcome can be achieved,” Bloomberg quoted Georgieva as saying.

Georgieva also acknowledged the significance of Bulgaria's currency board, which has ensured stability in the country, and reassured that no one desires to see it disappear. The Sofia-born economist said Bulgaria's currency board “has anchored the stability in the country. Nobody wants to see the currency board go away.”

Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has expressed confidence that her home country Bulgaria will ultimately join the Euro zone, despite political obstacles that have hindered the nation's bid for the past three years.

Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has expressed confidence that her home country Bulgaria will ultimately join the Euro zone, despite political obstacles that have hindered the nation's bid for the past three years. Speaking at a joint IMF and Croatian central bank conference in Dubrovnik, Georgieva emphasized that Bulgaria's entry into the Euro zone is a matter of "when, not if". Bulgaria, alongside Croatia, entered the Euro-area's waiting room, called ERM-2, in 2020. While Croatia successfully adopted the Euro in January, Bulgaria, a former Soviet satellite state in Eastern Europe, had to abandon its initial goal of joining the Euro zone by 2024 due to political turmoil. Georgieva pointed out that Croatia's more stable political environment, exemplified by the re-election of prime minister Andrej Plenkovic in the 2020 general election, played a significant role in the country's successful transition. She stressed the need for political will and societal unity during challenging times, underscoring that such conditions can lead to favorable outcomes. “The contrast between Croatia and Bulgaria shows that where there’s political will, and where society is united, even in the hardest times, a good outcome can be achieved,” Bloomberg quoted Georgieva as saying. Georgieva also acknowledged the significance of Bulgaria's currency board, which has ensured stability in the country, and reassured that no one desires to see it disappear. The Sofia-born economist said Bulgaria's currency board “has anchored the stability in the country. Nobody wants to see the currency board go away.”

Bulgaria's entry into Euro zone: IMF chief optimistic despite political deadlock

Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov and translator Angela Rodel were named Tuesday winners of the International&nbsp;Booker&nbsp;Prize with the novel "Time Shelter" -- a first for a book in Bulgarian.

The prestigious award recognises works of fiction from around the world that have been translated into English and the £50,000 ($62,000) prize is split equally between the author and the translator.

The winning novel focuses on a "clinic for the past" that offers experimental Alzheimer's treatment.&nbsp;

It recreates the atmosphere of past decades down to the smallest detail to trigger patients' memories.&nbsp;But with time healthy people start coming to the clinic, seeking an escape from the horrors of modern life.

"It is a novel that invites reflection and vigilance as much as it moves us, because the language -- sensitive and precise -- manages to capture, in a Proustian vein, the extreme fragility of the past," Franco-Moroccan writer and judges panel chair Leila Slimani said.

Born in 1968, novelist and poet Gospodinov is the most internationally acclaimed modern Bulgarian author. His works are translated into 25 languages.&nbsp;

Speaking about the book's nomination, Gospodinov said, "This encourages writers not only from my country, but also from the Balkans, who often feel themselves outside the sphere of English-speaking attention."

Rodel is originally from the US state of Minnesota but lives and works in Bulgaria. Her poetry and prose translations have been published across literary magazines and anthologies.

In 2014, she was granted Bulgarian citizenship for her work and contribution to Bulgarian culture.

"We need not only to recognise the translators, but also put them on an equal footing with the authors," Rodel told journalists.&nbsp;

"It was really trying to decide with Georgi how we were going to not just translate the text but translate the atmosphere, the context... all of those socialist sort of ghosts that were haunting the text itself."

Gospodinov agreed that "It was not easy at all to translate this kind of book, because the book is dealing with different decades in the 20th century and with different languages that we have in this decade."

Last year the International&nbsp;Booker&nbsp;Prize was awarded to the Hindi novel "Tomb of Sand" by Indian author Geetanjali Shree, and translated by Daisy Rockwell. 
 
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Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov and translator Angela Rodel were named Tuesday winners of the International Booker Prize with the novel "Time Shelter" -- a first for a book in Bulgarian.

Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov and translator Angela Rodel were named Tuesday winners of the International Booker Prize with the novel "Time Shelter" -- a first for a book in Bulgarian. The prestigious award recognises works of fiction from around the world that have been translated into English and the £50,000 ($62,000) prize is split equally between the author and the translator. The winning novel focuses on a "clinic for the past" that offers experimental Alzheimer's treatment. It recreates the atmosphere of past decades down to the smallest detail to trigger patients' memories. But with time healthy people start coming to the clinic, seeking an escape from the horrors of modern life. "It is a novel that invites reflection and vigilance as much as it moves us, because the language -- sensitive and precise -- manages to capture, in a Proustian vein, the extreme fragility of the past," Franco-Moroccan writer and judges panel chair Leila Slimani said. Born in 1968, novelist and poet Gospodinov is the most internationally acclaimed modern Bulgarian author. His works are translated into 25 languages. Speaking about the book's nomination, Gospodinov said, "This encourages writers not only from my country, but also from the Balkans, who often feel themselves outside the sphere of English-speaking attention." Rodel is originally from the US state of Minnesota but lives and works in Bulgaria. Her poetry and prose translations have been published across literary magazines and anthologies. In 2014, she was granted Bulgarian citizenship for her work and contribution to Bulgarian culture. "We need not only to recognise the translators, but also put them on an equal footing with the authors," Rodel told journalists. "It was really trying to decide with Georgi how we were going to not just translate the text but translate the atmosphere, the context... all of those socialist sort of ghosts that were haunting the text itself." Gospodinov agreed that "It was not easy at all to translate this kind of book, because the book is dealing with different decades in the 20th century and with different languages that we have in this decade." Last year the International Booker Prize was awarded to the Hindi novel "Tomb of Sand" by Indian author Geetanjali Shree, and translated by Daisy Rockwell. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bulgarian novel ‘Time Shelter’ wins International Booker Prize

Bulgaria would soon be governed by a “stable government” after the two biggest rival political parties agreed to rule through a coalition after hectic parlays, former EU commissioner for innovation Mariya Gabriel, who led the negotiations, said on Monday.

"We all made a lot of concessions," Gabriel told a news conference in the country's capital Sofia, reports AFP news agency.

Gabriel's conservative GERB and the anti-graft We Continue the Change (PP) will propose a government of experts for a period of 18 months.

GERB's nominee for prime minister Maryia Gabriel, and Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria's leader Nikolay Denkov have agreed to rotate as head of the government every nine months, Gabriel said.

Initially, Gabriel, the 44-year-old ex-commissioner who resigned from her post in Brussels last week, will take on the mantle of the deputy prime minister, while 60-year-old researcher Nikolay Denkov of the PP will be the prime minister. Two years later, both will swap their positions.

This is the first time that Bulgaria will be ruled under a rotating premiership. A coalition government was the only option for both parties after Gabriel failed to secure backing from two out of three smaller parties in the fragmented legislature for a cabinet.

"We sought a solution to avoid the real danger of new elections," Denkov said Monday.

As per the agreement, the coalition will have a pro-European Union agenda, with obtaining membership in the Schengen passport-free area and the euro monetary union as top priorities along with fighting Russian influence in Bulgaria's security sector.

For the past two years, the people of Bulgaria were unable to give a decisive mandate due to which five parliamentary elections were held. In the latest one, GERB secured a narrow victory in the April 2 vote with 26.5 per cent of the vote or 69 seats.

The pro-European PP got the second biggest mandate with 24.5 per cent, and got 64 seats. The combined 133 seats will give the two parties a slim majority in the 240-seat parliament.

The PP has been reluctant to participate in the government as it did not want to form a coalition with the GERB or ministers appointed by Boyko Borissov.

<h2>For past two years, caretaker govts have been governing </h2>

Ever since a massive protest overthrew the decade-long corrupted regime of former prime minister Boyko Borisov—the head of GERB— in 2020, Bulgaria has been getting caretaker governments as none of the political parties managed to gain a significant majority

After Borisov, the pro-Western government of prime minister Kiril Petkov, who led a fragile coalition, was booted out after a no-confidence vote in parliament after only six months in power.

In February, President Rumen Radev dissolved the parliament and announced the April 2 vote.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bulgaria would soon be governed by a “stable government” after the two biggest rival political parties agreed to rule through a coalition after hectic parlays, former EU commissioner for innovation Mariya Gabriel, who led the negotiations, said on Monday.

Bulgaria would soon be governed by a “stable government” after the two biggest rival political parties agreed to rule through a coalition after hectic parlays, former EU commissioner for innovation Mariya Gabriel, who led the negotiations, said on Monday. "We all made a lot of concessions," Gabriel told a news conference in the country's capital Sofia, reports AFP news agency. Gabriel's conservative GERB and the anti-graft We Continue the Change (PP) will propose a government of experts for a period of 18 months. GERB's nominee for prime minister Maryia Gabriel, and Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria's leader Nikolay Denkov have agreed to rotate as head of the government every nine months, Gabriel said. Initially, Gabriel, the 44-year-old ex-commissioner who resigned from her post in Brussels last week, will take on the mantle of the deputy prime minister, while 60-year-old researcher Nikolay Denkov of the PP will be the prime minister. Two years later, both will swap their positions. This is the first time that Bulgaria will be ruled under a rotating premiership. A coalition government was the only option for both parties after Gabriel failed to secure backing from two out of three smaller parties in the fragmented legislature for a cabinet. "We sought a solution to avoid the real danger of new elections," Denkov said Monday. As per the agreement, the coalition will have a pro-European Union agenda, with obtaining membership in the Schengen passport-free area and the euro monetary union as top priorities along with fighting Russian influence in Bulgaria's security sector. For the past two years, the people of Bulgaria were unable to give a decisive mandate due to which five parliamentary elections were held. In the latest one, GERB secured a narrow victory in the April 2 vote with 26.5 per cent of the vote or 69 seats. The pro-European PP got the second biggest mandate with 24.5 per cent, and got 64 seats. The combined 133 seats will give the two parties a slim majority in the 240-seat parliament. The PP has been reluctant to participate in the government as it did not want to form a coalition with the GERB or ministers appointed by Boyko Borissov. For past two years, caretaker govts have been governing Ever since a massive protest overthrew the decade-long corrupted regime of former prime minister Boyko Borisov—the head of GERB— in 2020, Bulgaria has been getting caretaker governments as none of the political parties managed to gain a significant majority After Borisov, the pro-Western government of prime minister Kiril Petkov, who led a fragile coalition, was booted out after a no-confidence vote in parliament after only six months in power. In February, President Rumen Radev dissolved the parliament and announced the April 2 vote. (With inputs from agencies)

After five hung verdicts in two years, Bulgaria finally gets a stable government

Apart from Finland, elections are also being held in Europe's Bulgaria and Montenegro. Polls are now open for Presidential elections in Montenegro whereas Bulgaria is holding its fifth parliamentary election in just two years.

Elections being held in Finland, Bulgaria and Montenegro

Ahead of Ukraine war anniversary, Bulgarian envoy spoke to WION's Sidhant Sibal. She said Ukraine needs internationally recognised borders. Watch for more.

Bulgaria's Envoy: Ukraine needs internationally recognised borders

Bulgarian police have arrested seven people in connection with the death&nbsp;of 18 migrants, including a child, from Afghanistan, said officials on Saturday (February 18), a day after they were found in an abandoned truck outside the capital city of Sofia. According to the initial investigations, the truck was transporting 52 people who were hiding under wooden planks out of which 18 died due to suffocation.&nbsp;

The three arrests made on Saturday were in addition to the previous four detained suspects who are said to be Bulgarians, reported AFP. This incident may be one of the deadliest people smugglings in the country where there has been an uptick in the number of illegal border crossings. Reports suggest that the truck contained a group of Afghans who were coming from Turkey&nbsp;and were headed for western Europe as Bulgaria serves as a gateway to the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

An interior ministry spokesperson told AFP, “I can confirm seven people have been arrested”, while another official reportedly said that the suspected ringleader was among those arrested. The alleged ringleader has a previous record of&nbsp;similar charges and had&nbsp;received a suspended jail sentence of five months for smuggling people.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bulgarian-authorities-find-18-migrants-found-dead-in-truck-563187">Bulgarian authorities find 18 migrants dead in an abandoned truck 'illegally transporting' around 40 people</a>

On Friday, Bulgarian authorities said that 34 people, including five children, were rescued and rushed to the hospital. The country’s interior ministry also later reported that the truck was transporting timber and carrying illegal migrants hidden in compartments. According to reports, the local residents alerted the police about the vehicle which was found abandoned near the village of Lokorsko, 12 km away from the capital city of Sofia.&nbsp;

The head of the National Investigative Service, Borislav Sarafov, told reporters yesterday, that the migrants had crossed the border with neighbouring Turkey&nbsp;and hid in the wood for two days before they were moved onto a truck near the city of Yambol in southeastern Bulgaria. Additionally, Health Minister Asen Medzhidiev had also said that there had been “a lack of oxygen to those who were locked in this truck. They were freezing, wet, they have not eaten for several days.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Bulgarian police have arrested seven people in connection with the death of 18 migrants, including a child, from Afghanistan, said officials on Saturday (February 18), a day after they were found in an abandoned truck outside the capital city of Sofia.

Bulgarian police have arrested seven people in connection with the death of 18 migrants, including a child, from Afghanistan, said officials on Saturday (February 18), a day after they were found in an abandoned truck outside the capital city of Sofia. According to the initial investigations, the truck was transporting 52 people who were hiding under wooden planks out of which 18 died due to suffocation. The three arrests made on Saturday were in addition to the previous four detained suspects who are said to be Bulgarians, reported AFP. This incident may be one of the deadliest people smugglings in the country where there has been an uptick in the number of illegal border crossings. Reports suggest that the truck contained a group of Afghans who were coming from Turkey and were headed for western Europe as Bulgaria serves as a gateway to the 27-nation bloc. An interior ministry spokesperson told AFP, “I can confirm seven people have been arrested”, while another official reportedly said that the suspected ringleader was among those arrested. The alleged ringleader has a previous record of similar charges and had received a suspended jail sentence of five months for smuggling people. ALSO READ | Bulgarian authorities find 18 migrants dead in an abandoned truck 'illegally transporting' around 40 people On Friday, Bulgarian authorities said that 34 people, including five children, were rescued and rushed to the hospital. The country’s interior ministry also later reported that the truck was transporting timber and carrying illegal migrants hidden in compartments. According to reports, the local residents alerted the police about the vehicle which was found abandoned near the village of Lokorsko, 12 km away from the capital city of Sofia. The head of the National Investigative Service, Borislav Sarafov, told reporters yesterday, that the migrants had crossed the border with neighbouring Turkey and hid in the wood for two days before they were moved onto a truck near the city of Yambol in southeastern Bulgaria. Additionally, Health Minister Asen Medzhidiev had also said that there had been “a lack of oxygen to those who were locked in this truck. They were freezing, wet, they have not eaten for several days.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bulgarian cops arrest seven for death of 18 Afghan migrants found in an abandoned truck

Greece and Bulgaria on Thursday (February 16) signed deals to reduce their dependence on Russian oil and gas. Greek prime minister's office said that the Balkan neighbours will co-operate on procuring and storing natural gas. It also said that the two countries will "explore" creation of a new pipeline between the ports of Alexandroupolis and Burgas.

The agreements are "one more step towards the strategic goal of European (energy) autonomy," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said after a meeting with visiting Bulgarian President Rumen Radev.

The president said that Greek companies would now be able to store natural gas in underground facility of Chiren while Bulgarian companies will have access to Greek terminal of Revithoussa.

"Both countries will have assured access to facilities that are critical to their energy security," Mitsotakis said.

He said the agreement "turns our two countries into crossroads for gas distribution not just from Greece to Bulgaria, but to the rest of Europe."

Both states have sped up projects to diversify away from dependence on Russian oil and gas.

Earlier in February, Bulgaria launched construction of a long-delayed gas pipeline link to neighbouring Serbia, while Greece has increased its capacity to store liquid natural gas.

Russia is a major supplier of natural gas to Europe. But ever since the Ukraine war broke out, Russia has been leveraging its position as major energy provider for political gains.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Greece and Bulgaria on Thursday (February 16) signed deals to reduce their dependence on Russian oil and gas. Greek prime minister's office said that the Balkan neighbours will co-operate on procuring and storing natural gas.

Greece and Bulgaria on Thursday (February 16) signed deals to reduce their dependence on Russian oil and gas. Greek prime minister's office said that the Balkan neighbours will co-operate on procuring and storing natural gas. It also said that the two countries will "explore" creation of a new pipeline between the ports of Alexandroupolis and Burgas. The agreements are "one more step towards the strategic goal of European (energy) autonomy," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said after a meeting with visiting Bulgarian President Rumen Radev. The president said that Greek companies would now be able to store natural gas in underground facility of Chiren while Bulgarian companies will have access to Greek terminal of Revithoussa. "Both countries will have assured access to facilities that are critical to their energy security," Mitsotakis said. He said the agreement "turns our two countries into crossroads for gas distribution not just from Greece to Bulgaria, but to the rest of Europe." Both states have sped up projects to diversify away from dependence on Russian oil and gas. Earlier in February, Bulgaria launched construction of a long-delayed gas pipeline link to neighbouring Serbia, while Greece has increased its capacity to store liquid natural gas. Russia is a major supplier of natural gas to Europe. But ever since the Ukraine war broke out, Russia has been leveraging its position as major energy provider for political gains. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Greece and Bulgaria come together, sign energy deal to reduce dependence on Russia

The Bulgarian interior ministry, on Friday (February 17) said that they found at least 18 migrants dead as they were hiding in a truck with at least 40 others “under some wood”. This comes as the European Union nation has been struggling with illegal border crossings and this incident may be one of the deadliest involving migrants. According to local media reports, the migrants were to be transported from the Bulgarian-Turkish border to Dragoman which is close to the border with neighbouring, Serbia.&nbsp;

"According to initial information, the truck was illegally transporting around 40 migrants hidden under some wood. According to what we know so far, 18 of them have died," said the Bulgarian authorities, in a statement, as per AFP. Additionally, the interior ministry also said that the survivors are being taken to the hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

The Bulgarian health emergency centre also told the state news agency BTA, eight were rushed to the hospital in grave condition. According to reports, the local residents alerted the police about the vehicle which was found abandoned near the village of Lokorsko which is 12 km away from Sofia. The statement also said that the police are looking for the truck's drivers who fled and are believed to be human traffickers.&nbsp;

According to the Bulgarian Health Minister, Asen Medzhidiev, 34 migrants including five children were rushed to the&nbsp;hospitals in the capital city as some were in critical but stable condition, reported Reuters. He added, “There has been a lack of oxygen to those who were locked in this truck. They were freezing, wet, they have not eaten for several days.”

The EU nation which serves as a gateway to the 27-nation bloc has been trying to tighten security along its border with Turkiye in a bid to stop the increasing number of migrants crossing. Notably, last year, Austria and the Netherlands blocked Sofia’s bid to join the Schengen border-free zone citing security concerns.&nbsp;

This also comes amid Bulgaria facing accusations of abusing migrants trying to cross the 234-kilometre border with Turkiye as asylum seekers have reportedly said that they have been locked up, stripped and beaten.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Bulgarian interior ministry, on Friday (February 17) said that they found at least 18 migrants dead as they were hiding in a truck with at least 40 others “under some wood”.

The Bulgarian interior ministry, on Friday (February 17) said that they found at least 18 migrants dead as they were hiding in a truck with at least 40 others “under some wood”. This comes as the European Union nation has been struggling with illegal border crossings and this incident may be one of the deadliest involving migrants. According to local media reports, the migrants were to be transported from the Bulgarian-Turkish border to Dragoman which is close to the border with neighbouring, Serbia. "According to initial information, the truck was illegally transporting around 40 migrants hidden under some wood. According to what we know so far, 18 of them have died," said the Bulgarian authorities, in a statement, as per AFP. Additionally, the interior ministry also said that the survivors are being taken to the hospital for treatment. The Bulgarian health emergency centre also told the state news agency BTA, eight were rushed to the hospital in grave condition. According to reports, the local residents alerted the police about the vehicle which was found abandoned near the village of Lokorsko which is 12 km away from Sofia. The statement also said that the police are looking for the truck's drivers who fled and are believed to be human traffickers. According to the Bulgarian Health Minister, Asen Medzhidiev, 34 migrants including five children were rushed to the hospitals in the capital city as some were in critical but stable condition, reported Reuters. He added, “There has been a lack of oxygen to those who were locked in this truck. They were freezing, wet, they have not eaten for several days.” The EU nation which serves as a gateway to the 27-nation bloc has been trying to tighten security along its border with Turkiye in a bid to stop the increasing number of migrants crossing. Notably, last year, Austria and the Netherlands blocked Sofia’s bid to join the Schengen border-free zone citing security concerns. This also comes amid Bulgaria facing accusations of abusing migrants trying to cross the 234-kilometre border with Turkiye as asylum seekers have reportedly said that they have been locked up, stripped and beaten. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bulgarian authorities find 18 migrants dead in an abandoned truck 'illegally transporting' around 40 people

State owned Kozloduy nuclear plant in Bulgaria signed a deal for nuclear fuel supply with a French firm on Friday (December 30) in its attempt&nbsp;to reduce dependence on Russia. The state-owned Kozloduy plant on the Danube river currently relies on Russian fuel for its two Soviet-built 1,000-megawatt reactors.

Russia has been facing global sanctions in the aftermath of Ukraine invasion. It has chosen to leverage its position as major energy provider to Europe to counter political pressure and sanctions. European countries have upped their efforts in recent months to secure energy resources and reduce dependence on Russia.&nbsp;

Under a 10-year agreement signed Friday, Framatome, a subsidiary of French energy giant EDF, will supply nuclear fuel to Kozloduy's unit 5 reactor from early 2025.&nbsp;

Last week, Kozloduy signed a similar contract with Westinghouse Electric Sweden to deliver nuclear fuel for its other operational reactor, unit 6, from 2024.&nbsp;

Bulgaria's interim energy minister Rosen Hristov said,&nbsp;"With two agreements in place, we have achieved full diversification of nuclear fuel deliveries."

"The aim is security of deliveries and safe operation," he added.&nbsp;

Westinghouse's nuclear fuel has yet to be approved for use by Bulgaria's Nuclear Regulatory Agency.&nbsp;

However, Framatome's fuel is identical with the one currently used in Kozloduy as it is being produced under licence from the nuclear unit of Russia's Rosatom, Tvel.&nbsp;

Bulgaria's current contract with Tvel expires in end-2025.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-extends-a-spring-2023-invite-to-chinese-president-xi-for-a-state-visit-to-russia-548027">Putin extends invite to Chinese President Xi for a spring 2023 state visit to Russia</a>

Kozloduy supplies over a third of the country's electricity and is a major electricity exporter to the rest of the Balkans, prompting the plant to seek to substitute Russian fuel in order to ensure its operation amid the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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State owned Kozloduy nuclear plant in Bulgaria signed a deal for nuclear fuel supply with a French firm on Friday (December 30) in its attempt to reduce dependence on Russia.

State owned Kozloduy nuclear plant in Bulgaria signed a deal for nuclear fuel supply with a French firm on Friday (December 30) in its attempt to reduce dependence on Russia. The state-owned Kozloduy plant on the Danube river currently relies on Russian fuel for its two Soviet-built 1,000-megawatt reactors. Russia has been facing global sanctions in the aftermath of Ukraine invasion. It has chosen to leverage its position as major energy provider to Europe to counter political pressure and sanctions. European countries have upped their efforts in recent months to secure energy resources and reduce dependence on Russia. Under a 10-year agreement signed Friday, Framatome, a subsidiary of French energy giant EDF, will supply nuclear fuel to Kozloduy's unit 5 reactor from early 2025. Last week, Kozloduy signed a similar contract with Westinghouse Electric Sweden to deliver nuclear fuel for its other operational reactor, unit 6, from 2024. Bulgaria's interim energy minister Rosen Hristov said, "With two agreements in place, we have achieved full diversification of nuclear fuel deliveries." "The aim is security of deliveries and safe operation," he added. Westinghouse's nuclear fuel has yet to be approved for use by Bulgaria's Nuclear Regulatory Agency. However, Framatome's fuel is identical with the one currently used in Kozloduy as it is being produced under licence from the nuclear unit of Russia's Rosatom, Tvel. Bulgaria's current contract with Tvel expires in end-2025. Also Read | Putin extends invite to Chinese President Xi for a spring 2023 state visit to Russia Kozloduy supplies over a third of the country's electricity and is a major electricity exporter to the rest of the Balkans, prompting the plant to seek to substitute Russian fuel in order to ensure its operation amid the war in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bulgaria signs nuclear fuel deal with French firm to reduce dependence on Russia

Bulgaria on Saturday (November 19) charged five people with helping one of the suspects in Istanbul blast. Last weekend's blast in central Istanbul killed six people. Turkiye, which has jailed 17 people over the blast has blamed the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) for the blast. Turkiye regards the PKK as a 'terror group'. Those who died in the blast included two girls aged nine and 15.

"Five people have been charged" over their "logistical" help to one of the suspects to flee, Siyka Mileva, a spokeswoman for the Sofia prosecutor's office told AFP. &nbsp;

Bulgaria's local media said that three or those charged were from Moldova and a fourth was from an unspecified Arab country. There were no immediate details about the fifth person.

The PKK and its Syrian offshoot the YPG have denied involvement in the blast, which also wounded 81 people. No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Turkish police captured the chief suspect Alham Albashir -- a Syrian woman who is said to have been working for Kurdish militants -- in an Istanbul suburb.&nbsp;

Albashir reportedly confessed to planting the bomb during her interrogation.&nbsp;

The Istanbul court remanded the 17 suspects in pre-trial detention on charges of "destroying national unity" and "deliberate killing".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bulgaria on Saturday (November 19) charged five people with helping one of the suspects in Istanbul blast. Last weekend's blast in central Istanbul killed six people.

Bulgaria on Saturday (November 19) charged five people with helping one of the suspects in Istanbul blast. Last weekend's blast in central Istanbul killed six people. Turkiye, which has jailed 17 people over the blast has blamed the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) for the blast. Turkiye regards the PKK as a 'terror group'. Those who died in the blast included two girls aged nine and 15. "Five people have been charged" over their "logistical" help to one of the suspects to flee, Siyka Mileva, a spokeswoman for the Sofia prosecutor's office told AFP. Bulgaria's local media said that three or those charged were from Moldova and a fourth was from an unspecified Arab country. There were no immediate details about the fifth person. The PKK and its Syrian offshoot the YPG have denied involvement in the blast, which also wounded 81 people. No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Turkish police captured the chief suspect Alham Albashir -- a Syrian woman who is said to have been working for Kurdish militants -- in an Istanbul suburb. Albashir reportedly confessed to planting the bomb during her interrogation. The Istanbul court remanded the 17 suspects in pre-trial detention on charges of "destroying national unity" and "deliberate killing". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bulgaria: Five charged with helping Istanbul blast suspect

An exit poll in Bulgaria suggested Sunday that the center-right GERB party of ex-premier Boyko Borissov will be the likely winner of Bulgaria’s parliamentary election.

Bulgaria National Elections: Exit poll suggests center-right GERB party will win

Bulgaria's centre-right GERB party of former long-serving prime minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sunday's election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear.

With 99% of the ballots counted, partial official results showed GERB winning with 25.4%. Its main rival, the reformist We Continue the Change of Kiril Petkov, whose coalition cabinet collapsed in June, came second with 20.2%.

The results point to difficult coalition talks in a fractured parliament or even another snap election in the European Union member state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-presidential-election-enters-runoff-as-bolsonaro-beats-expectations-to-finish-a-close-second-to-silva-521948">Brazil presidential election enters runoff as Bolsonaro beats expectations to finish a close second to Silva</a>

Either would prolong political instability amid steep surging energy and consumer prices and war in Ukraine and raise the prospect of&nbsp;Bulgaria&nbsp;missing its 2024 target date for entry into the single currency euro zone.

Five political parties are seen entering the next parliament, the partial results showed. Final official results are expected on Thursday.

Efforts to put together a functioning coalition are complicated by the fact that many of Borissov's political adversaries accuse him of allowing widespread corruption to fester during his decade-long rule that ended last year. Borissov denies the allegations.

Some voters in the European Union's poorest member state say Borissov offers stability and has diplomatic experience required to navigate&nbsp;Bulgaria's complex relationship with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/presidents-of-9-nato-countries-support-ukraines-membership-of-the-military-alliance-521907">Russia</a>.

Borissov is yet to comment on the election results. Prior to the vote he indicated he would be open to talks with to all political parties and appealed to his rivals to show "reason" ahead of difficult winter.

We Continue the Change party has conceded defeat and said it would stay in opposition.

"We have pledged that we would not go into coalition with GERB and we will stay true to our promise," Petkov said on Monday, adding that his party remained adamant about fighting endemic corruption.

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Bulgaria's centre-right GERB party of former long-serving prime minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sunday's election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear.

Bulgaria's centre-right GERB party of former long-serving prime minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sunday's election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear. With 99% of the ballots counted, partial official results showed GERB winning with 25.4%. Its main rival, the reformist We Continue the Change of Kiril Petkov, whose coalition cabinet collapsed in June, came second with 20.2%. The results point to difficult coalition talks in a fractured parliament or even another snap election in the European Union member state. Also read | Brazil presidential election enters runoff as Bolsonaro beats expectations to finish a close second to Silva Either would prolong political instability amid steep surging energy and consumer prices and war in Ukraine and raise the prospect of Bulgaria missing its 2024 target date for entry into the single currency euro zone. Five political parties are seen entering the next parliament, the partial results showed. Final official results are expected on Thursday. Efforts to put together a functioning coalition are complicated by the fact that many of Borissov's political adversaries accuse him of allowing widespread corruption to fester during his decade-long rule that ended last year. Borissov denies the allegations. Some voters in the European Union's poorest member state say Borissov offers stability and has diplomatic experience required to navigate Bulgaria's complex relationship with Russia. Borissov is yet to comment on the election results. Prior to the vote he indicated he would be open to talks with to all political parties and appealed to his rivals to show "reason" ahead of difficult winter. We Continue the Change party has conceded defeat and said it would stay in opposition. "We have pledged that we would not go into coalition with GERB and we will stay true to our promise," Petkov said on Monday, adding that his party remained adamant about fighting endemic corruption. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Centre-right GERB party leads in Bulgaria election

Meanwhile polls are on way in Bulgaria as the country is voting for a lower house of parliament for the fourth time in 18 months. As per reports, no parties expected to win enough seats to form government alone.

Bulgaria sees fourth elections in 18 months, pro-Russia party expected to make gains

A valuable 1,000-year-old Christian manuscript that was taken by Bulgarian forces from a monastery in northern Greece more than a century ago has been returned, along with hundreds of other documents and artefacts, by a U.S. museum.

In a ceremony at the Eikosiphoinissa Monastery on Thursday, the 11th-century gospel was solemnly delivered in front of guests including Greek Orthodox Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and representatives from the Museum of the Bible in Washington.

The Greek manuscript, one of the oldest handwritten gospels in existence, is thought to have been created in southern Italy, according to the Archdiocese of America.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-you-know-taj-mahal-is-not-the-most-visited-tourist-site-india-this-is-520925">&nbsp;Did you know the Taj Mahal is not the most visited tourist site in India? This is!</a>

In 2014, it was given to the museum after being purchased at an auction. Officials at the museum later recognised it as one of the manuscripts taken from the monastery in 1917 and communicated their wish to restore it to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, the spiritual head of all Orthodox Christians worldwide.

Elpidophoros on Thursday praised the Museum of the Bible for its "courtesy in recognizing where (the manuscript) belongs and returning it." 
 
"A historical injustice has been redressed," he said.

Marauding soldiers from the nearby country of Bulgaria robbed the gospel along with other 430 priceless manuscripts and hundreds of sacred relics. The majority remain missing.

During World War II, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-era-as-greece-bulgaria-gas-pipeline-starts-pumping-521539">Bulgarian</a> occupation forces affiliated with Nazi Germany set the eighth-century monastery on fire. Since then, it has been renovated and serves as a convent.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A valuable 1,000-year-old Christian manuscript that was taken by Bulgarian forces from a monastery in northern Greece more than a century ago has been returned, along with hundreds of other documents and artefacts, by a U.

A valuable 1,000-year-old Christian manuscript that was taken by Bulgarian forces from a monastery in northern Greece more than a century ago has been returned, along with hundreds of other documents and artefacts, by a U.S. museum. In a ceremony at the Eikosiphoinissa Monastery on Thursday, the 11th-century gospel was solemnly delivered in front of guests including Greek Orthodox Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and representatives from the Museum of the Bible in Washington. The Greek manuscript, one of the oldest handwritten gospels in existence, is thought to have been created in southern Italy, according to the Archdiocese of America. Also read | Did you know the Taj Mahal is not the most visited tourist site in India? This is! In 2014, it was given to the museum after being purchased at an auction. Officials at the museum later recognised it as one of the manuscripts taken from the monastery in 1917 and communicated their wish to restore it to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, the spiritual head of all Orthodox Christians worldwide. Elpidophoros on Thursday praised the Museum of the Bible for its "courtesy in recognizing where (the manuscript) belongs and returning it." "A historical injustice has been redressed," he said. Marauding soldiers from the nearby country of Bulgaria robbed the gospel along with other 430 priceless manuscripts and hundreds of sacred relics. The majority remain missing. During World War II, Bulgarian occupation forces affiliated with Nazi Germany set the eighth-century monastery on fire. Since then, it has been renovated and serves as a convent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

1,000-year-old manuscript robbed by Bulgarian forces returned to Greek monastery by US museum

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday hailed a "new era" as a long-awaited pipeline began pumping gas, amid the EU's efforts to wean itself off Russian energy.

The Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB), a 182-kilometre (113-mile) trans-boundary pipeline was designed to help Bulgaria, which has for years been heavily dependent on Russian gas, obtain energy from other sources.

It officially opened in July, but did not start operations until Saturday.

"Today a new era for Bulgaria and southeast Europe begins," von der Leyen said during a ceremony in Sofia.

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"Bulgaria used to receive 80 percent of its gas from Russia. That was before Russia decided to launch an atrocious war against Ukraine and an energy war against Europe," she said.

"This pipeline is a game changer. It's a game changer for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bulgarian-coastguard-rescues-38-migrants-from-black-sea-518873">Bulgaria</a> and for Europe's energy security."&nbsp;

The IGB pipeline enables Bulgaria to link up, via Greece, to the TANAP/TAP pipeline designed to supply western Europe with gas from Azerbaijan's giant Shah Deniz gas field in the Caspian Sea.

Sofia is due to receive one billion cubic metres of gas through the pipeline.

"It means freedom from the dependency on Russian gas. Indeed, the interconnector could cover the entire gas consumption of Bulgaria. And this is really great news in very difficult times," von der Leyen said.

"But thanks to projects like this, Europe will have enough gas for the winter."

Linking Komotini in Greece to Stara Zagora in Bulgaria, the IGB pipeline was initially conceived in 2009 but construction did not begin until 2019.

It will also pipe gas from other sources, particularly from Algeria and Qatar via the existing LNG terminal in Revithousa, west of Athens and the planned terminal in Alexandroupolis, northeastern Greece.

Bulgaria ended deliveries from Russian giant Gazprom in April, weeks after Russia invaded Ukraine.

The European Union, which relied heavily on Russian gas and oil before the war in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/break-through-die-or-surrender-ukraine-army-surrounds-russian-troops-in-key-town-of-lyman-521509">Ukraine</a>, has been scrambling to find alternative energy sources.&nbsp;

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday hailed a "new era" as a long-awaited pipeline began pumping gas, amid the EU's efforts to wean itself off Russian energy.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday hailed a "new era" as a long-awaited pipeline began pumping gas, amid the EU's efforts to wean itself off Russian energy. The Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB), a 182-kilometre (113-mile) trans-boundary pipeline was designed to help Bulgaria, which has for years been heavily dependent on Russian gas, obtain energy from other sources. It officially opened in July, but did not start operations until Saturday. "Today a new era for Bulgaria and southeast Europe begins," von der Leyen said during a ceremony in Sofia. Also read | LIVE | World Bank announces $530 million in new funding for Ukraine "Bulgaria used to receive 80 percent of its gas from Russia. That was before Russia decided to launch an atrocious war against Ukraine and an energy war against Europe," she said. "This pipeline is a game changer. It's a game changer for Bulgaria and for Europe's energy security." The IGB pipeline enables Bulgaria to link up, via Greece, to the TANAP/TAP pipeline designed to supply western Europe with gas from Azerbaijan's giant Shah Deniz gas field in the Caspian Sea. Sofia is due to receive one billion cubic metres of gas through the pipeline. "It means freedom from the dependency on Russian gas. Indeed, the interconnector could cover the entire gas consumption of Bulgaria. And this is really great news in very difficult times," von der Leyen said. "But thanks to projects like this, Europe will have enough gas for the winter." Linking Komotini in Greece to Stara Zagora in Bulgaria, the IGB pipeline was initially conceived in 2009 but construction did not begin until 2019. It will also pipe gas from other sources, particularly from Algeria and Qatar via the existing LNG terminal in Revithousa, west of Athens and the planned terminal in Alexandroupolis, northeastern Greece. Bulgaria ended deliveries from Russian giant Gazprom in April, weeks after Russia invaded Ukraine. The European Union, which relied heavily on Russian gas and oil before the war in Ukraine, has been scrambling to find alternative energy sources. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Greece-Bulgaria gas pipeline starts pumping, EU hails it as dawn of a 'new era'

In the wake of exodus of Russians fleeing the country to escape military mobilisation, Poland and Bulgaria on Tuesday (September 28) urged their citizens to leave Russia, reported The Guardian. As more and more people flee Russia, border crossing into neighbouring countries may get difficult in the coming days.

Bulgaria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that it “Calls for refraining from traveling to the Russian Federation and recommends that Bulgarian citizens in the Russian Federation consider the possibility of leaving the country as soon as possible, using currently available means of transport”.

As per Polish outlet TVP, country's foreign ministry has made a similar appeal to its citizens. Poland said that flights with Russia had been suspended.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After initial successes, Russian forces have had to retreat in some area in the face of Ukrainian counter-attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered a partial military mobilisation. Soon after the mobilisation was &nbsp;announced, reports of Russians fleeing the country have hit headlines all over the world.

Meanwhile in Ukraine, Russian-backed authorities claim to have carried out the referendums over five days on territory that makes up around 15% of Ukraine.

Residents who escaped to Ukrainian-held territory in recent days have told of people being forced to tick ballots in the street by roving officials at gunpoint. Footage filmed during the exercise showed Russian-installed officials taking ballot boxes from house to house with armed men in tow.

Russia says voting was voluntary and in line with international law, and turnout high.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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In the wake of exodus of Russians fleeing the country to escape military mobilisation, Poland and Bulgaria on Tuesday (September 28) urged their citizens to leave Russia, reported The Guardian.

In the wake of exodus of Russians fleeing the country to escape military mobilisation, Poland and Bulgaria on Tuesday (September 28) urged their citizens to leave Russia, reported The Guardian. As more and more people flee Russia, border crossing into neighbouring countries may get difficult in the coming days. Bulgaria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that it “Calls for refraining from traveling to the Russian Federation and recommends that Bulgarian citizens in the Russian Federation consider the possibility of leaving the country as soon as possible, using currently available means of transport”. As per Polish outlet TVP, country's foreign ministry has made a similar appeal to its citizens. Poland said that flights with Russia had been suspended. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After initial successes, Russian forces have had to retreat in some area in the face of Ukrainian counter-attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered a partial military mobilisation. Soon after the mobilisation was announced, reports of Russians fleeing the country have hit headlines all over the world. Meanwhile in Ukraine, Russian-backed authorities claim to have carried out the referendums over five days on territory that makes up around 15% of Ukraine. Residents who escaped to Ukrainian-held territory in recent days have told of people being forced to tick ballots in the street by roving officials at gunpoint. Footage filmed during the exercise showed Russian-installed officials taking ballot boxes from house to house with armed men in tow. Russia says voting was voluntary and in line with international law, and turnout high. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Poland, Bulgaria urge citizens to leave Russia

The path to European Union (EU) membership got a little clearer for North Macedonia as the country’s lawmakers passed a deal to settle their ongoing dispute with Bulgaria. The North Macedonian parliament passed the French-brokered deal with 68 votes (out of 120 total votes) which proposed a constitutional amendment which will allow them to recognise a Bulgarian minority in the country. However, the opposition politicians refrained from participating in the vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-says-that-islam-in-beijing-must-be-chinese-in-orientation-498073" hreflang="en">Xi Jinping says that Islam in Beijing must be Chinese in orientation</a>

“Today we are opening a new perspective for our country…from today we are moving with accelerated steps to join the EU family,” Prime Minister Dimitar Kovacevski told Reuters.

The proposal also stated that it will not be compulsory for the minority to recognise the Macedonian language. This was a huge step for the country to follow Finland and Sweden to become EU members and Kovacevski said that the two parties will be meeting for the first time on Tuesday.

Lawmakers in North Macedonia on Saturday passed a French-brokered deal aimed at settling a dispute with Bulgaria and clearing the way to long-due European Union membership talks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sri-lankas-political-crisis-what-happens-next-497952">In pics-Sri Lanka's political crisis: What happens next?</a>

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had earlier urged North Macedonia to pass the deal which she said “paves the way for opening the accession negotiations rapidly.”

Due to this decision, Bulgaria is now expected to withdraw their opposition to North Macedonia’s bid to join the EU. Meanwhile, Albania will also benefit from the situation as the nation’s EU membership dreams are currently on standby due to the under-process North Macedonian bid.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The path to European Union (EU) membership got a little clearer for North Macedonia as the country’s lawmakers passed a deal to settle their ongoing dispute with Bulgaria.

The path to European Union (EU) membership got a little clearer for North Macedonia as the country’s lawmakers passed a deal to settle their ongoing dispute with Bulgaria. The North Macedonian parliament passed the French-brokered deal with 68 votes (out of 120 total votes) which proposed a constitutional amendment which will allow them to recognise a Bulgarian minority in the country. However, the opposition politicians refrained from participating in the vote. Also read | Xi Jinping says that Islam in Beijing must be Chinese in orientation “Today we are opening a new perspective for our country…from today we are moving with accelerated steps to join the EU family,” Prime Minister Dimitar Kovacevski told Reuters. The proposal also stated that it will not be compulsory for the minority to recognise the Macedonian language. This was a huge step for the country to follow Finland and Sweden to become EU members and Kovacevski said that the two parties will be meeting for the first time on Tuesday. Lawmakers in North Macedonia on Saturday passed a French-brokered deal aimed at settling a dispute with Bulgaria and clearing the way to long-due European Union membership talks. Also read | In pics-Sri Lanka's political crisis: What happens next? European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had earlier urged North Macedonia to pass the deal which she said “paves the way for opening the accession negotiations rapidly.” Due to this decision, Bulgaria is now expected to withdraw their opposition to North Macedonia’s bid to join the EU. Meanwhile, Albania will also benefit from the situation as the nation’s EU membership dreams are currently on standby due to the under-process North Macedonian bid. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

North Macedonia passes bill in parliament to end dispute with Bulgaria

In order to achieve energy independence, European countries Greece and Bulgaria have opened a long-awaited natural gas pipeline.

Outgoing Bulgarian Prime Minister Kiril Petkov told the inauguration ceremony in Komotini that "Over the coming weeks, the pipeline will be filled with Azeri gas and compensate for the discontinuation of Russian gas."

Hailing the pipeline as historic, Petkov highlighted that it will link Komotini to Stara Zagora in Bulgaria.

The trans-boundary pipeline, which is 182-kilometre (113-mile) long, is called the Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB).

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Following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Russian giant Gazprom refused to provide gas to Bulgaria as it refused to pay in roubles.

The TANAP/TAP pipeline designed to supply Western Europe with gas from Azerbaijan's giant Shah Deniz gas field in the Caspian Sea will be linked by IGB.

With an option to upgrade to five, the pipeline has a capacity of three billion cubic metres and is worth 220 million euros ($224 million).

The European Union, which was frantically looking for gas alternatives after Russia threatened to cut off its supply, funded $45 million to the IGB to pipe gas from Algeria and Qatar via the existing LNG terminal in Revithousa.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In order to achieve energy independence, European countries Greece and Bulgaria have opened a long-awaited natural gas pipeline. Outgoing Bulgarian Prime Minister Kiril Petkov told the inauguration ceremony in Komotini that "Over the coming weeks, the pipeline will be filled with Azeri gas and compensate for the discontinuation of Russian gas.

In order to achieve energy independence, European countries Greece and Bulgaria have opened a long-awaited natural gas pipeline. Outgoing Bulgarian Prime Minister Kiril Petkov told the inauguration ceremony in Komotini that "Over the coming weeks, the pipeline will be filled with Azeri gas and compensate for the discontinuation of Russian gas." Hailing the pipeline as historic, Petkov highlighted that it will link Komotini to Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. The trans-boundary pipeline, which is 182-kilometre (113-mile) long, is called the Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB). × Following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Russian giant Gazprom refused to provide gas to Bulgaria as it refused to pay in roubles. The TANAP/TAP pipeline designed to supply Western Europe with gas from Azerbaijan's giant Shah Deniz gas field in the Caspian Sea will be linked by IGB. With an option to upgrade to five, the pipeline has a capacity of three billion cubic metres and is worth 220 million euros ($224 million). The European Union, which was frantically looking for gas alternatives after Russia threatened to cut off its supply, funded $45 million to the IGB to pipe gas from Algeria and Qatar via the existing LNG terminal in Revithousa. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Ukraine crisis: European countries open new pipeline to achieve energy independence

As the Ukrainian war continues to rage on for the fifth month, Russia is facing more and more ostracisation from the global community. In the latest, 70 Russian diplomats have been expelled form Bulgaria.

'They worked against nation's interest', Bulgaria expels 70 Russian diplomats

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