SOFIA, June 10 (Xinhua) -- The 11th edition of "Sofia Pride" parade was held here in the weekend, with some 4,000 LGBTI persons taking part in the event which was held every other year.

This year's parade was held on Saturday evening under the motto "Different People, Equal Rights!", which aimed at bringing in public focus the right to equal living for LGBTI people.

The event's program featured a concert in downtown Sofia with the participation of popular musicians, followed by a parade. For the first time, accompanying events was also organized throughout the month, such as thematic exhibitions, shows, a film festival, sports events and forums.

Security measures in the city have been stepped up to prevent clashes with opponents of the parade. It caused a strong opposition in previous years among people who consider it a threat to traditional family values.

Three counter-events were also held on Saturday, which were a "March for Family", a concert entitled "To Revive Family Values", and a protest under the motto "Let's Save the Children of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Family".