Sofia, 17 March 2025 (MIA) - The Bulgarian Government at an extraordinary session will declare Tuesday (March 18) a day of national mourning as an expression of solidarity with North Macedonia, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov told reporters in the village of Damyanitsa, Sandanski municipality, BTA reports. 

Zhelyazkov again expressed condolences to the families of the victims, and hope for successful recovery of the injured. He noted that so far 14 Macedonian citizens are receiving treatment in Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna hospitals. 

"We are ready to receive more patients, it depends on our counterparts in North Macedonia. We are in constant contact, our Ambassador is on the ground. We expressed our readiness, and we have the capacity for that. We have provided conditions for the families of the injured to arrive in Bulgaria, so that they can be in contact and give them support," Bulgaria's PM said.

He added that the tragedy transcends everyday political and social differences. "Human feelings and solidarity come to the fore at such difficult times. I believe that our peoples will put aside daily challenges and be united on this day," Zhelyazkov pointed out. 

As an expression of solidarity with North Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro are also observing a day of national mourning. 

Photo: BTA