SOFIA, Bulgaria – Acting Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev has voiced concerns about the potential danger of a migrant wave approaching Bulgaria, as conflicts in the Middle East continue to escalate.
Following a session of the National Security Advisory Council (NSAC), Glavchev warned that although there has not yet been a significant increase in migration, the risk of a surge remains a top priority for the government.
In remarks following the council meeting, Glavchev acknowledged that the flow of migrants into Bulgaria is still low, with no noticeable changes in size or structure.
“We are monitoring the situation closely,” he said, stressing that “all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and calm of Bulgarian citizens.”
The acting prime minister emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s borders and protecting its people from potential risks linked to the ongoing Middle Eastern crises.
The NSAC session, convened to address national security risks in light of international tensions, was described by Glavchev as “productive.”
He highlighted the unity among participants, underscoring that coordinated efforts between institutions are crucial for navigating the country through emerging challenges.
“We must continue working hand-in-hand to ensure the best possible outcomes for Bulgaria and its citizens,” Glavchev stated.
In addition to discussing migrant flow concerns, the NSAC meeting focused on the evacuation of Bulgarian nationals from high-risk regions.
Glavchev pointed to the successful evacuation of Bulgarian citizens from Beirut as an example of effective cooperation between government institutions and foreign partners.
So far, a number of citizens have already been safely returned to Bulgaria, with more evacuations planned for today.
According to Glavchev, 25 more Bulgarian nationals will be evacuated from Lebanon between 10 a.m. and noon on Friday. In addition, another 16 individuals are expected to leave via a Canadian Airlines flight bound for Istanbul later today.
These evacuations come in the wake of growing instability in Lebanon, spurred by the broader Middle Eastern unrest.
The acting prime minister also addressed the situation of Bulgarian citizens currently in Iran, which has also been affected by the unfolding regional conflict.
While the Bulgarian government has prepared contingency plans to assist with evacuations, Glavchev confirmed that no official requests for assistance have been made by the approximately 45-50 Bulgarians still in the country.
“We are ready to act if necessary, but we urge our citizens to avoid travel to or from Iran at this time,” he said, echoing the government’s standing travel advisory.
Despite the growing tensions and uncertainties, Glavchev sought to reassure the public that Bulgaria is well-prepared to handle any security challenges that may arise.
“We are taking every possible precaution,” he concluded, noting that ongoing cooperation between various state agencies will be key to maintaining national stability and protecting Bulgarian citizens both at home and abroad.
As conflicts in the Middle East continue to pose risks, the Bulgarian government remains vigilant, carefully monitoring the situation while implementing precautionary measures to prevent the potential consequences of increased migration.