site.btaUPDATED 52nd National Assembly Opens

Bulgaria's newly elected 52nd National Assembly opened at 10 a.m. here on Thursday.

Under the Constitution, the inaugural sitting was opened by the oldest National Representative present: 78-year-old Rumen Milanov MP of Progressive Bulgaria.

Addressing the legislature, Milanov listed two principal tasks for it: restoring the force of law and preserving peace. "Regardless of our partisan differences, we must work together for our children's future, respecting the work of our constituents and in the name of the Bulgarian people," he said. "The national spirit must rise above petty bickering and offences. Bulgarian citizens elected us and placed their trust in us. Bulgarian count on our conscience, good will and decision making."

He then administered the 240 lawmakers' oath, which reads: "I do swear in the name of the Republic of Bulgaria that I will observe the Constitution and the laws of the land and will be guided in all my actions by the interests of the people. I have sworn to it."

The Bulgarian national anthem and the anthem of Europe were played in the debating chamber. The MPs of Vazrazhdane remained seated during the playing of the Ode to Joy. 

The MPs were asked to sign the oath paper and deliver it to the administration.