Number: 98-627
Title: Bulgaria: Country Background Report
Authors: Julie Kim, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division 
Abstract: In June 2001, the party of Simeon III, 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 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.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated July 13, 2001