Amidst heated parliamentary showdowns, Bulgaria's parliament has formally approved a new budget that has been met with bothpraise and criticism. The budget, which aims to address crucial economic challenges impacting the country, includes significant increases in spending on healthcare, while also introducing a number of debated tax changes.

The passage of the budget came after weeks of negotiations, with opposition parties strongly criticizing. Supporters of the budget, on the other hand, argue that it is critical for strengthening Bulgaria's economicdevelopment.

The complete impact of the new budget remains to be seen, but it is {certainlikely to shape Bulgaria's economic and social landscape in the years to come.

A Major Earthquake Strikes Southern Bulgaria

An severe earthquake of magnitude 7.2 struck southern Bulgaria early this morning, causing widespread devastation. Reports are emerging of collapsed buildings and trapped residents in many towns and villages in the affected area. Emergency services are struggling to access to the disaster zone, but the full extent of the loss is still unknown.

The earthquake was detected as far as Sofia, and international aid organizations have already extended their support to the Bulgarian government in its response to the disaster.

• Emergency responders|Local citizens are working day and night to save survivors from the wreckage.
• Hospitals are overwhelmed with the number of injured people.
• Authorities have issued urgent warnings to address the crisis.

The Bulgarian Lev Loses Ground Amidst Global Economic Volatility

The Bulgarian/Lev/local currency has recently weakened/lost ground/depreciated sharply/gradually/significantly amidst heightened/growing/increased global economic uncertainty/volatility/instability. Investors are nervous/concerned/worried about the outlook/prospects/future of the global economy, driving/pushing/forcing capital outflow/flight/movement from emerging markets like Bulgaria. This trend/pattern/phenomenon has put/placed/exerted downward pressure on the Bulgarian Lev/currency/national currency, making it weaker/less valuable/devalued against major currencies/fiat money/global reserves.

The central bank/monetary authority/financial regulators of Bulgaria are monitoring/observing/tracking the situation closely and may take/implement/adopt measures/policies/actions to stabilize/support/strengthen the currency. However, the effectiveness of these steps/strategies/interventions remains to be seen as the global Latest news from Sliven economic climate/environment/outlook continues/persists/remains uncertain.

Bulgarian capital's Startup Raises Millions in Investment

A Sofia-based startup has recently attracted the attention of investors, successfully collecting millions in investment. That startup, dedicated to AI technology, is rapidly gaining traction in the startup community.

Details the funding round remain confidential, but sources close to the company that the funding will be used to research and innovation.

This young team are looking forward to building a successful company, and believe that will enable them to make a significant impact.

National Assembly Debates Proposed Amendments to Election Law

The National Assembly met today to discuss proposed adjustments to the country's election law. The controversial proposals, which aim to modernize the electoral process, have ignited a fierce debate among lawmakers.

Advocates of the amendments argue that they are necessary to enhance election integrity and ensure a just playing field for all candidates. On the other hand, critics voice concerns that the changes could disenfranchise voters and weaken democratic values.

The assembly will resume its deliberations on the proposed amendments in the coming weeks. The outcome of this debate could have profound consequences for the future of governance in the country.

Tourism Booms in Bulgaria as Summer Season Kicks Off

Bulgaria is experiencing a incredible start to the summer season, with travel bookings skyrocketing. Beaches along the Black Sea coast are bursting with tourists eager to soak up the sun and relax in the warm Mediterranean climate. The charming villages inland are also bustling with activity, as visitors explore Bulgaria's rich history, tradition, and authentic cuisine.

Hotels and resorts are reporting exceptional occupancy rates, while local businesses are reaping the rewards of this travel surge. The government is confident that this trend will continue throughout the summer months.