Bulgaria: Country Background Report (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
July 13, 2001 |
| Report Number |
98-627 |
| Authors |
Julie Kim, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
In June 2001, the party of Simeon II, Bulgaria's former King from the pre-communist era, won
just
short of a majority of the vote in parliamentary elections. Simeon, who founded his party three
months earlier, did not run for a seat in parliament, but nevertheless was nominated by his party on
July 12 to become Prime Minister. Simeon II is the first ex-monarch to return to power in eastern
Europe since World War II. The Simeon II National Movement party replaces a center-right
government that achieved many significant economic reforms and consolidated Bulgaria's pro-
Western orientation. Primary goals for Bulgaria remain full membership in NATO and the European
Union. U.S. Administrations and Congress have noted Bulgaria's positive role in promoting peace
and stability in the Balkan region. This report will be updated as events warrant.
