BULGARIA-SOFIA-EUROZONE-SHORT TRANSITION PERIOD

(260101) -- SOFIA, Jan. 1, 2026 (Xinhua) -- Vegetables are labeled with prices in both euros and Bulgarian lev at a market in Sofia, Bulgaria, Dec. 31, 2025. Bulgaria joined the eurozone and adopted the euro as its official currency on New Year's Day, becoming the 21st member of the euro area.

To ensure a smooth transition to the new currency, throughout January, the Bulgarian lev will remain in circulation alon