Bulgaria’s Cultural Diplomacy: BTA signed a partnership with Kazanlak Municipality to cover the town’s cultural calendar, while UzA chief Abdusaid Kuchimov praised Kazanlak’s Rose Festival traditions and heritage after touring the Rose Museum. Literary & Media Awards: Writer Boyka Asiova received the 2026 ABUJET award at BTA’s National Press Club, named after former BTA director general Maxim Minchev. Books Across Borders: Petya Kokudeva presented her Romanian-translated children’s book “Lupo and Tumba” at Bucharest Bookfest, as Bulgaria served as guest of honour. Music & Identity: In a BTA interview ahead of concerts, Ishtar described music as “a perfume” and framed her art as an intimate human encounter beyond politics and nations. EU Culture & Rights Debate: EU justice ministers discussed cross-border parenthood recognition, a sensitive issue affecting children’s access to care and schooling after moving within the bloc. Environment with Bulgarian Role: A Bulgarian-partner project on Egyptian vultures won the LIFE Awards 2026 Citizens’ Prize, with GPS tracking to secure the species’ flyway. Festival Spotlight: Burgas’ Black Sea International Literary Festival opened with Bulgarian and regional authors, including Rene Karabash. Eurovision Aftermath: Eurovision 2026 drew 131 million viewers, down 35 million after boycotts over Israel’s participation, even as Bulgaria won with Dara’s “Bangaranga.”