Bulgaria considers Israel a key strategic partner and our excellent relations could give a strong boost to the sectors of trade, innovation, education, agriculture and tourism. This was what Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said at a meeting with leading Jewish organizations, which was held in New York, BNR correspondent Svetoslav Kozlovski has reported.

"Bulgaria has consistently called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. The hostage crisis directly affects our country. There is a Bulgarian citizen among the persons still detained by Hamas," the Prime Minister pointed out. He said that it was imperative to guarantee the protection of all civilians, including humanitarian workers, as well as civilian infrastructure, such as medical facilities, schools and UN premises.

Editor: Ivo Ivanov

Publication in English: Al. Markov

Photo: government.bg