Brussels, (Unib Rashid) __ Bulgaria has officially become the 21st member of the European Union, marking the occasion with grand celebrations in its capital, Sofia. The Central Bank building was illuminated, while images of euro coins and European Union flags were prominently displayed. Large crowds were seen celebrating joyfully as the historic moment unfolded.

At the stroke of midnight on Wednesday, Bulgaria formally abandoned its national currency, the lev, which had been in circulation since the late nineteenth century, and adopted the euro as its official currency.

Successive governments in the country of 6.4 million people have long supported joining the euro, hoping the move would strengthen the economy of one of the European Union’s poorest member states, enhance ties with the West, and reduce Russian influence. However, the decision has also faced opposition within the country.

Public reaction to the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria has been mixed. While many citizens have welcomed the move as a step toward deeper integration with the European Union, others have expressed concerns that it may lead to rising inflation.