PM Radev tells foreign critics to get the facts first on Bansko row

Prime Minister Rumen Radev urged foreign politicians who criticised Bulgaria over an incident between Bulgarian and Italian youths in Bansko to first establish the facts.

Speaking to reporters, Radev said Bulgaria's institutions and society had consistently rejected xenophobia, racism and antisemitism, adding that the authorities had also condemned hate speech in connection with the incident.

"We are ready to present all the facts," he said.

Radev also called on all visitors to Bulgaria to respect the country's laws, the dignity of its citizens and private property, and to refrain from behaviour that could provoke tensions.

He added that Bulgarians had demonstrated tolerance towards different ethnic and religious communities throughout history. Referring to the Second World War, Radev said Bulgaria had saved its Jewish community from Nazi concentration camps, describing it as "a moral lesson for all of Europe that should not be forgotten."

According to BTA, the remarks followed a verbal altercation on Aug. 2 between Bulgarian youths and Italian students in the mountain resort of Bansko. Police said the Italian students reported being threatened and subjected to antisemitic insults. Officers intervened promptly, preventing the situation from escalating, and no physical violence was reported.

• Sofia condemns all forms of anti-Semitism

Editor: Miglena Ivanova

English editor: E. Radkova