News

Bulgaria declared Tuesday a day of national mourning in solidarity with North Macedonia following a deadly fire at a disco in Kočani that killed 59 people and injured 155 others. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov offered condolences to the families of the victims and pledged medical assistance to the injured.

Fourteen victims of the Kočani nightclub fire, including eight in critical condition, are receiving treatment in Bulgarian hospitals, with authorities urging continued blood donations to support their recovery. The Bulgarian embassy in Skopje is offering assistance to families of the victims, including transportation and accommodation.

The UK economy unexpectedly contracted by 0.1% in January, driven by a decline in the production sector and construction activity. This poses challenges for Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she prepares her spring statement, with calls to tighten purse strings amid competing spending pressures and sluggish growth.

Gold prices have reached an all-time high, exceeding $3,000 an ounce for the first time ever, driven by geopolitical tensions, trade uncertainties, and a growing fear of recession. Investors are seeking refuge in the safety of precious metals, leading to a surge in gold prices and a sell-off in American stocks.

Bernard Arnault, the 76-year-old chairman and CEO of luxury giant LVMH, is seeking to extend his leadership until he turns 85, despite concerns about the potential drawbacks of long-serving leaders. The move comes as LVMH faces fresh headwinds from President Trump's proposed tariffs on European wine and cognac.