Irina Belcheva

Bulgarian authorities consider changing regulations and conditions for the integration of migrants and refugees, government spokesperson Irina Belcheva has said.

The reason is "tension in society", in an apparent reference to two recent instances of anti-refugee sentiment in the towns of Elin Pelin and Belene.

There are not enough indications Bulgaria could obtain the necessary number of voting machines in time for the early election in March, the government says.

The cabinet's spokesperson Irina Belcheva has said a study carried out by the government shows it is "almost impossible" to hold talks on acquiring machines on such a short notice.