Bulgaria Highlights: Parliamentary Debates, Investment Law Amendments, and Nadal's Withdrawal"
Parliament Discusses New Laws on Science and Innovation: The parliament is expected to continue the first reading of a bill aimed at promoting scientific research and innovation, proposed by the Council of Ministers. Yesterday, lawmakers began debating the proposed texts, but there wasn't enough time during the session for everyone to express their views and vote on the bill.
The goal of the new law is to establish lasting regulations regarding public relations related to scientific research and innovation activities and to ensure consistency in implementing a common policy for the development of scientific research and innovation. It includes provisions to promote scientific research and innovation through the implementation of a multi-year Framework Programme for Scientific Research and Innovation, which will determine the scope, areas, and activities for their funding in line with national strategic documents.
Changes in Investment Promotion Law: According to the agenda for the week, lawmakers are also set to discuss amendments to the Investment Promotion Law, also on first reading.
The measures for investment promotion are applied in accordance with the requirements of Regulation (EU) No 651/2014, as a multi-sectoral scheme for regional investment aid and a training aid scheme, as outlined in the text.
The amendments propose that at least 25% of eligible expenses for tangible and intangible assets be financed through own resources or through external financing in a form that excludes public support. Previously, the requirement was for 40% of eligible expenses to be self-funded.
The National Assembly is also expected to discuss and ratify a series of international documents.
Rafael Nadal Withdraws from Indian Wells Masters: 37-year-old tennis star Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Indian Wells Masters tournament, stating that he is not "ready to compete at the highest level."
The Spanish player, who plans to retire after the 2024 season, returned to the court in Brisbane in January after almost a year of absence due to a hip injury, but had to miss the Australian Open due to another muscle tear.
He lost to Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Las Vegas on Sunday and seemed ready to compete for his fourth title at Indian Wells.
"With great sadness, I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament," said the 22-time Grand Slam champion.
"It's not an easy decision, actually, it's a tough one, but I can't lie to myself and the thousands of fans. You will all be missed, and I'm sure the tournament will be a great success," Nadal wrote on social media.
The tournament director, Tommy Haas, expressed disappointment at Nadal's withdrawal, who will be replaced by lucky loser Sumit Nagal.
"He is one of the fans' favorites of all time here, and we hope to see him again in Indian Wells in the future," added Haas.
Now Nadal will focus on his favorite clay surface with an eye on the record 15th French Open title and a second Olympic gold medal in Paris. "CE Reported used BTA for this article"
