Putin congratulates Radev on election as Bulgarian president, suggests expanding cooperation in interests of two fraternal nations
MOSCOW. Nov 14 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Rumen Radev on his election as President of Bulgaria, the Kremlin press office said.
"The Russian head of state noted the significant potential for further development of Russian-Bulgarian relations based on centuries-long traditions of friendship and cultural and spiritual affinity," the press office said.
Putin "expressed confidence that joint efforts will make it possible to give a new impetus to bilateral political dialogue and broaden constructive cooperation in various areas in the interests of the fraternal people of the two countries," the Kremlin said.
The Russian president wished Radev a successful presidency, the press office said.
It was reported that almost 60% of the Bulgarian electorate cast their votes for Radev, backed by Bulgarian socialists. Radio Bulgaria, citing data from the central election commission, said that based on the 99.33% of processed ballots, it is possible to conclude that over two million voters (59.35%) voted for Radev. His rival from the GERB party, Tsetska Tsachev, secured the support of 1.2 million voters (36.17%). The final results are expected to be announced later on Monday, Radio Bulgaria said.