President: Referendum Brings Bulgarian Democracy to New Level

Bulgaria's first democratic referendum should open the door to an expansion of direct participation by citizens, stated Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev upon voting Sunday.

"It is a great success for Bulgaria that we achieved a new level of political maturity that allowed the organization of a referendum," said Plevneliev.

"I wish Bulgarians to actively participate in the vote and I will am wishing myself that this will not be the last national referendum during my term in office," added he.

The Bulgarian President explained that as the first democratic referendum, the vote bears larger importance than merely the question about the future of Bulgaria's nuclear energy.

The referendum asks the question "Should nuclear energy be developed in the Republic of Bulgaria through the construction of a new nuclear power plant?"

"Everyone should take part, because if we want this to be our country, each of us must give his or her share. Everyone can and must have a position and stand up for it," said Plevneliev.

The President rejected a politicization of the referendum and stressed that people have a good choice to have their voices heard.

"Some will question the significance of this referendum, but ever more people willl realize that what is at stake is hearing the people," stated the Bulgarian President.