SOFIA, April 21, 2007, (WAFA) - President Mahmoud Abbas highly praised on Saturday Bulgaria's supportive stance to the Palestinian question.

During a joint press conference with the Bulgarian President, Georgi Parvanov, in Sofia, the president revealed that he briefed his counterpart on the latest developments in the Palestinian territories and the efforts exerted to end international siege imposed on the Palestinian people.

The President commended Bulgarian decision to open a diplomatic representation in Ramallah city, inviting Parvanov to visit the Palestinian territories in any time he sees appropriate.

He also congratulated Bulgaria for being a member of the European Union, hoping that such membership would positively contribute in supporting the Palestinian rights.

For his part, Parvanov reiterated his country support to the Palestinian rights and President Abbas's efforts to end international siege imposed on the Palestinian people, saying that Bulgaria, as a member of the EU, will work to end Palestinian suffering.

Parvanov also welcomed the formation of the unity government and considered it as a step towards activating the peace process and solving issues of the Middle East region.

H.M (17:40 P)-(14:40 GMT)