Bulgaria holds nuclear power referendum
Bulgaria's 1st referendum since the fall of communism has polarized opinion along party lines.
SOFIA: Bulgarians are voting in a referendum on whether a new nuclear power plant should be built in the European Union s poorest member country, a choice also seen as a barometer of the country s relationship with Russia.
Sunday s vote was called by the opposition Socialist party in an effort to force the government to reverse its decision to scrap a deal with Russia on the construction of a second nuclear plant.
Bulgaria s first referendum since the fall of communism in 1989 has polarized opinion along party lines. It has been seen as a test ahead of general elections in July, but also as a chance to loosen Moscow s energy grip.
The latest polls estimate a low turnout, which could make the referendum invalid. At least 60 percent of the electorate must take part.
