Baku, July 16, AZERTAC A ceremonial send-off was held Thursday in Stara Zagora for 97 Bulgarian service members deploying to Kosovo as part of NATO's Kosovo Force (KFOR), according to the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA).The contingent, primarily drawn from the Second Tundzha Mechanized Brigade, also includes personnel from the Joint Forces Command, Military Police Service, Mobile Communication and Information System, and the Military Medical Academy. Based at Camp Villaggio Italia, the unit will spend until the end of 2026 conducting patrols, surveillance, and security support operations within Regional Command West's area of responsibility.Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Head of the Minister's Political Cabinet Vladko Vladov wished the troops a successful mission, highlighting Bulgaria's continued contribution to NATO and regional stability in the Western Balkans.Commander of the Bulgarian Land Forces Major General Deyan Deshkov noted that Bulgarian troops have served in KFOR for 26 years, earning a strong reputation for professionalism and discipline. He reminded the contingent that their mission is to support peace and stability, not impose authority.Stara Zagora Deputy Mayor Milena Zheleva presented the contingent with the flag of Stara Zagora and an icon of St. George, while the Ministry of Defence also donated an icon. The troops received a blessing for a safe and successful deployment from clergy of the Stara Zagora Diocese.