Until 1989 Bulgaria (The People's Republic of Bulgaria) was a member of the Soviet bloc. It has been a Democratic Republic, the Republic of Bulgaria, since 1990. The president is the head of state elected by the people for a five-year term.
The political party that ruled from June 2000 till June 2005 was the party of Bulgaria's former king, Simeon II. He is a grandson of Ferdinand I and a son of Boris III, and happens also to be a cousin of Queen Elizabeth.
During Bulgaria travel, visitors will see the national flag. The flag is recognizable by its three colors -- white, green and red. Deriving from ancient traditions, the Bulgaria's state coat of arms includes representations of lions. The official logo is a stylized rose.
