The condition of the 14 victims of the Kočani disco fire who are receiving treatment in Bulgaria remains serious, with eight on mechanical ventilation and three in critical condition. The tragedy has sparked anger and calls for accountability, with journalist Atanas Velichkov stating that "the people's anger will be unleashed if no one is held responsible.
Six residents of Kocani, North Macedonia, traveled to Pirogov Hospital in Sofia to donate their rare blood type A, negative Rh factor, urgently needed for a patient in critical condition. Their selfless act inspired many others to donate blood, demonstrating an outpouring of support for the victims of the Kocani tragedy.
Bulgaria is experiencing a record high in the import of manpower from non-EU countries, with over 4,200 third-country nationals registered for seasonal employment alone since the beginning of the year. This surge in foreign workers is driven by the needs of the business sector, which are not being met by the domestic workforce.
Bulgaria's Minister of Labor and Social Policy, Borislav Gutsanov, highlighted the need for increased job opportunities and higher pensions for people with disabilities, who currently number around 700,000 in the country. He also acknowledged the crucial role played by the church in supporting vulnerable populations, citing the "St. John of Rila" Center as an example.
Following a devastating fire in a Kočani nightclub, 15 injured individuals were transferred to hospitals in Bulgaria, where they received immediate medical attention and support from both the Bulgarian government and the people of Bulgaria. The tragedy has strengthened the bond between North Macedonia and Bulgaria, showcasing their unwavering solidarity in the face of adversity.