CHISINAU, November 2. /TASS/. The Bulgarian people, by electing Iliana Iotova their president, have made a firm choice in favor of defending national interests, preserving sovereignty and upholding traditional values, former Moldovan president and leader of the country's largest opposition force, the Party of Socialists, Igor Dodon, has said.

"The election victory confirms that the Bulgarian people have made a firm choice in favor of protecting national interests, preserving sovereignty and upholding traditional values. Moldova and Bulgaria are bound by more than just geographical proximity. Our two peoples share the Orthodox faith, a centuries-old history and deep spiritual ties. This is a foundation that cannot be destroyed. I am convinced that Iliana Iotova's victory will further strengthen the partnership between our countries," Dodon wrote on his Telegram channel.

He also highlighted the importance of the Bulgarian community in Moldova, praising its hard work and assuring that the Party of Socialists has always stood up for - and will continue to defend - the rights of ethnic Bulgarians, the preservation of their cultural identity and their development.

According to the results released after 100% of the election commission’s reports had been processed, incumbent President Iliana Iotova secured 57.566% of the vote, while her opponent, Andrey Gyurov, received 39.483%.

In foreign policy, Iotova has focused on developments in the Middle East, called for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, and stressed the need to ensure the safety of navigation in the Black Sea. She has also advocated reducing financial assistance to Ukraine in order "to stop the bloodshed" and pledged that Bulgarian troops would not be deployed to the combat zone in Ukraine.