Bulgarian Forests in Excellent Condition, Says Outgoing Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food

Desislava Toncheva

Outgoing Agriculture and Food Deputy Minister Miroslav Marinov in Sliven, April 1 (BTA Photo)

Sliven, Southeastern Bulgaria,

01.04.2024 13:31

(BTA)

Outgoing Agriculture and Food Deputy Minister Miroslav Marinov opened Bulgaria's Forest Week 2024 in Sliven, Southeastern Bulgaria, on Monday. Bulgarian forests are in excellent condition, the Deputy Minister told journalists.

Forest growth has doubled in the last 60 years, increasing in area and stock, said Marinov. A total of 56% of forest territories are protected under Natura 2000. Bulgaria is in third place in Europe when it comes to protected areas, and in second when it come to biodiversity, he added.

"For the 99th time, this year we will celebrate Forest Week, a professional holiday of the forestry community," said Marinov. He welcomed the representatives of the forestry community gathered at the ceremony in Sliven. The official guests included MPs and mayors. A solemn award ceremony for the most outstanding forestry employees and control officers was held at the event.

/RY/