Bulgaria’s political gridlock has finally ended! The National Assembly approved a coalition government led by Rosen Zhelyazkov, a nominee from the GERB-UDF party, on Thursday. This comes over two months after parliamentary elections left the Balkan nation in a stalemate.
Zhelyazkov, a 58-year-old former transport minister, now steps into the spotlight as premier, promising stability amid economic challenges and a fragmented parliament. The coalition deal between GERB-UDF and the reformist ‘We Continue the Change’ (PP) party aims to prioritize EU reforms and NATO commitments—key for Bulgaria, which joined both blocs in 2004 and 2007.
Why it matters: Bulgaria, often dubbed the EU’s ‘youngest democracy,’ has faced six elections since 2021. Analysts say this coalition could bring rare continuity, though critics warn of potential clashes over anti-corruption policies. Zhelyazkov’s team has pledged to boost tech innovation and green energy—top priorities for Gen Z and young professionals in Sofia and beyond.
What’s next? The cabinet faces its first test with a parliamentary vote of confidence next week. Stay tuned for updates!
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Bulgarian parliament approves new cabinet led by Rosen Zhelyazkov
cgtn.com