Botas contract frozen, new debt & more
Bulgaria is taking steps toward financial stabilization by freezing an unfavorable gas contract and taking on new sovereign debt. Travelers can benefit from cheaper airline tickets, while changes to voting methods are being prepared on the political front.
The state is freezing the gas supply contract with the Turkish company Botas, which has been subject to criticism due to high costs. This step aims to stop the drain of public funds under the agreement, with political forces already demanding clarity regarding the conditions under which this suspension was achieved.
In parallel, the Ministry of Finance has withdrawn a new loan of 2.5 billion euros from international markets. These funds are intended to support the state budget and manage the country's financial obligations.
For citizens planning trips in Europe, the national carrier Bulgaria Air announced discounts of up to 35% on one-way tickets. The reduction will be available for a long period—until the end of 2026.
New changes to election rules are being prepared after the "Progressive Bulgaria" party proposed returning machine voting to small polling stations with fewer than 300 voters. The proposal aims to amend the Election Code ahead of the upcoming presidential elections.
In the sphere of international relations, Turkish President Recep Erdogan expressed approval of Bulgaria's treatment of the Turkish community, signaling stability in bilateral ties. Meanwhile, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians) has been invited for an official visit to the country between October 16 and 20 for church celebrations.
More news on difficulties in issuing visas for tourists and the anniversary of Velingrad as the SPA capital can be found in the "News" section of the app.