Bulgaria: Borissov Tells Radev to 'Veto or Approve' as Dispute Over Lukoil Oversight Deepens
President Rumen Radev has once again criticized the government over its actions regarding the Burgas-based refinery “Lukoil Neftochim”
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev underscored the importance of the newly convened parliament during a joint press conference with Montenegro's President, Jakov Milatovic. Radev highlighted that in a parliamentary system, the effective functioning of parliament is paramount, emphasizing his decision to convene it promptly. He expressed confidence that Bulgaria would uphold its policy supporting European integration in the Western Balkans, stressing the need for a sustained approach based on merit and adherence to criteria like good neighborly relations, human rights, and the rule of law.
President Milatovic of Montenegro expressed gratitude for Bulgaria's support towards Montenegro's European integration aspirations, aiming for EU membership by 2028. He stressed the importance of mutual trust and economic prosperity for regional stability, underlining bilateral cooperation interests, particularly in economic sectors.
Symbolizing enduring bilateral ties, both leaders announced plans to plant a "tree of friendship" at the presidential residence in Cetinje and to reciprocally name streets in Podgorica and Sofia after prominent figures or geographical features from each country. They conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, discussing opportunities to deepen collaboration across industries such as defense, IT, science, and culture.
Radev emphasized the necessity for enhanced connectivity between Bulgaria and Montenegro, advocating for the establishment of a direct air route between Sofia and Podgorica. The presidents also deliberated on Montenegro's path towards accelerated European integration, affirming their commitment to advancing shared regional and European goals.
Asen Vassilev, co-chair of the opposition party "We Continue the Change," sharply criticized the government’s decision to nominate Rumen Spetsov as special manager of Lukoil Neftochim
Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov told the parliamentary defense committee that Bulgaria expects the F-16 Block 70 fighters to become fully operational in 2028
The Bulgarian government has put forward Rumen Spetsov as the special sales representative for Lukoil Neftochim
Bulgaria’s Ministry of Defence is set to receive a budget of EUR 2.708 billion for 2026
Deputy Prime Minister Tomislav Donchev assured on Thursday that Bulgaria will not face a fuel crisis, stressing that the government is doing everything in its power to prevent one
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov admitted that he does not consider the draft state budget for 2026 to be a good one, yet described it as the only feasible option under the current geopolitical and domestic circumstances
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