In a surprising turn of events, Bulgaria’s government has decided to withdraw its 2026 draft budget following widespread domestic protests and international concerns. The announcement was made on Thursday by Boyko Borissov, leader of the ruling center-right GERB party, who emphasized the need for renewed dialogue with employers and labor unions to achieve consensus on state finances. This decision comes as Bulgaria prepares to join the euro currency union next year, adding urgency to the fiscal discussions.