Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Prof. Dr. Krum Nedelkov announced that the ministry will build upon its successful cooperation with the Bulgarian Veterinary Union. The goal of the strengthened dialogue is to achieve higher efficiency in joint efforts for the benefit of the entire sector, as became clear during a meeting held with the Union's leadership, the Ministry of Agriculture's press center reported.

Prof. Nedelkov pointed out that communication with the Union is of key importance for the timely resolution of issues concerning animal health. He emphasized the importance of constant dialogue between institutions and the professional community, as this is the only way to achieve optimal results. Within the framework of the discussions, a specific agreement on financial matters was reached:

  • Starting in January 2027, a 10.7 percent increase is planned for the prices in the Tariff for the implementation of measures under the National Program for Prevention, Surveillance, Control, and Eradication of Animal Diseases, including zoonoses.
  • The percentage increase is adjusted to the inflation rate for July 2026, as calculated by the National Statistical Institute (NSI).
  • The necessary funding will be covered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, and the change will not impose an additional burden on livestock breeders.

The Deputy Minister drew attention to the indispensable role of field veterinarians. According to him, their work is fundamental to the sustainable implementation of preventive measures, animal health, maintaining food security, and ensuring opportunities for trade in animal products. Measures for prevention in a dynamic epizootic situation were also discussed, which require quick reaction and close coordination with the veterinary medical community.

As an important element of the partnership, it was agreed that a joint international conference on the "One Health" approach would be held in November. The forum will be held under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, with the ambition for Bulgaria to take an active and leading role in the development of regional dialogue in the Balkans. The goal is to bring together experts and representatives of the scientific community to exchange experience.

The Vice-President of the Union, Dr. Miroslav Parvanov, expressed satisfaction with the constructive dialogue and the empathy shown. He noted that the established trust is a stable foundation for future joint initiatives. BurgasMedia recalls that earlier this month, Prof. Nedelkov participated in an Operational Crisis Headquarters to combat sheep and goat pox. Its work also involved the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA), the National Diagnostic Research Veterinary Medical Institute, the Bulgarian Veterinary Union, and the Risk Assessment Center of the Food Chain (RACFC).