Government Dismisses Bulgaria's Honorary Consul In Ukraine

Bulgaria's government dismissed the Ukrainian citizen Ivan Avramov from the position honorary consul of Bulgaria in eastern Ukraine over reports that he is involved in alcohol contraband.

“Avramov is dismissed from the position after we received information of his involvement in activities which could derogate Bulgaria's reputation and have negative effect on the relations between Bulgaria and Ukraine,” said the government press office, quoted by the 24 Chasa daily. “Avramov's name is mentioned in publications connecting him with activities against the Ukrainian state, which is a considerable obstacle in carrying out one's functions as a honorary consul.”

According to the publication in 24 Chasa, Avramov, who is a Ukrainian of Bulgarian descent, was supporting the pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine. Moreover, he was part of the “family” - the oligarchs around ousted Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovich.

Avramov is the 45-th richest man in Ukraine with a fortune of around USD 352 M, acquired through an alcohol factory in Bolgrad, a coal mine in Donbass, coal enriching factories and a gas extraction company in Luhansk. During Yanukovic's rule, Avramov also controlled the Odessa customs and the state alcohol monopoly Ukrspirt, according to publications in Ukrainian media.

Bulgarian diplomats told 24 Chasa that after Avramov loses his diplomatic immunity, he would most likely prosecuted by Ukrainan authorities.

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