Sofia:Iliana Yotova has made history by becoming Bulgaria's first elected woman president. Yotova, who had been serving as president since Rumen Radev resigned in January, secured a decisive victory in the recent runoff election against former caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the Trend parallel count based on 100% of polling stations placed Yotova and her vice-presidential candidate Kiril Valchev at 58.1%, compared to 38.9% for Gyurov and Georgi Kandev. This victory marks a significant milestone in Yotova's political career, which has included roles in both European and Bulgarian institutions.

Before ascending to the presidency, Yotova served as a member of the European Parliament and later as vice president during Radev's presidential terms. After Radev's resignation, she succeeded him under Bulgaria's constitutional rules. Radev's party, Progressive Bulgaria, which won a majority in the April parliamentary elections, supported Yotova in the presidential race.

Yotova's campaign focused on foreign policy issues, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war. She has consistently opposed further Bulgarian military aid to Ukraine, advocating for diplomacy and a 'coalition for peace.' Her stance differed from her opponent Gyurov, who supported increased assistance to Ukraine and closer ties with NATO and EU partners. Yotova emphasized Bulgaria's independent foreign policy decisions while remaining part of a 'strong Europe.'

Yotova's election grants her a full mandate after years in Bulgaria's presidential institution, initially as vice president and then as president following Radev's departure. Her victory reflects a commitment to national consensus and independent decision-making in Bulgaria's future.