Borissov vows GERB will oppose foreign agents law
No GERB deputy will back the foreign agents law proposal launched by Vazrazhdane, which is modeled on Russian legislation, party leader Boyko Borissov assured journalists today.
The draft law, submitted by the pro-Russian nationalist group last October, mandates the registration and restriction of all individuals and entities receiving foreign funding. Although presented as Bulgaria's equivalent to the American Foreign Agents Registration Act, the proposal closely mirrors Russia's version. The latter led to the closure of many independent media outlets and NGOs, and the persecution of individuals critical of Putin's regime.
"NGOs are not opponents, they are allies of GERB. Many NGOs are linked to our partner countries with whom we share similar worldviews, including geostrategic ones. So, no GERB votes will support this, and I guarantee that not a single GERB deputy will back it. These are legislative proposals that divide, cause conflict, and do nothing to help people," Borissov affirmed.
Economic growth in second quarter reaches 2.1%
In the second quarter of 2024, gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 2.1% compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary data from the National Statistical Institute, released today.
The flash estimate, announced on August 14, projected a 2% growth. Under both methods of assessment, the quarterly growth was 0.5%.
Per capita, the value of the indicator amounts to 7,399 levs, or 3,783 euros.
Economic growth is attributed to an increase in final consumption by 3% and investments - by 3.6%. Exports declined by 0.3%, while imports grew by 4.9%, resulting in a positive trade balance.
French Air Liquide invests 100 million euros in Pirdop
Earlier this year, Aurubis Bulgaria launched its largest local program to date, with a total investment of 400 million euros by the end of 2027. Now, another major project has been announced by Air Liquide, which produces industrial gasses for copper smelters.
Over the next three years, the French group will invest a total of 100 million euros in Bulgaria and Germany, with the majority of the funds allocated to the site in Pirdop, an hour away from the capital. This will increase the capacity of the local entity Air Liquide Bulgaria by about 10%, enabling it to expand its market in the country and the region, where it also serves hundreds of smaller clients.
Borissov vows GERB will oppose foreign agents law
No GERB deputy will back the foreign agents law proposal launched by Vazrazhdane, which is modeled on Russian legislation, party leader Boyko Borissov assured journalists today.
