In a heated debate with 134 votes in favour, the Parliament adopted at first reading legislative amendments that will allow the state to terminate the concession of the port of Rosenets to Lukoil Neftohim Burgas under the fast-track procedure. 45 were against and 14 abstained.

The termination of the concession is in line with EU restrictive measures in view of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the bill's sponsors explained. The proposal was tabled by GERB-SDS, "We Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria" (PP-DB) and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF). According to them, the termination of the concession will stop Russia from using Bulgarian infrastructure to finance the war.

PP-DB MP Daniel Lorer said the termination of the concession is based on the EU-wide sanctions regime. The Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) and Vazrazhdane were opposed. 

"Are you aware of the amount we will have to pay if they (Lukoil Neftohim Burgas - ed.) bring a case against us?" asked Borislav Gutsanov of the BSP.

If finally adopted, the bill would allow the concession to be terminated within a week, BTA reports. The state signed a concession contract with Lukoil Neftohim Burgas in 2011. The concession is for a period of 35 years.