Romania and Bulgaria see local news on city mascots, school subjects, and parking changes

Several local developments were reported in Romania and Bulgaria. In Bucharest, the city's general mayor adopted a kitten as an official mascot for the City Hall. Separately, Romanian schools will offer a new optional subject called 'An hour with and for animals'.

In Sofia, Bulgaria, a major overhaul of the city's 'Park & Ride' buffer parking system has led to a significant price increase, which has sparked public backlash. Meanwhile, a cultural event called the Carnival of Venice was held in Sofia.