The Boston Globe reported that Bulgarians were happy to welcome US president George W. Bush in their country because a number of companies decided to give their employees a day off during the visit.

Police blocked the central part of Sofia as a part of the security measures. Many shops and businesses located in the area had to close down for the day.

During the visit Bush said that he was impressed with Bulgaria’s nature and the attitude of people.

“It's good to be here in your beautiful country,” Bush told his Bulgarian counterpart Georgi Purvanov during a joint press conference.