President Iotova: Let Us Preserve Bulgarian Language, Which Makes Us Nation

Nikolay Trifonov, Yoana Vodenicharova, Konstantin Kostov

President Iliana Iotova speaks during a May 24 ceremony outside the Sts Cyril and Methodius National Library, Sofia, May 24, 2026 (BTA Photo/Minko Chernev)

Sofia,

24.05.2026 13:02

(BTA)

Speaking during a ceremony marking the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and of Slav Letters here on Sunday, President Iliana Iotova urged Bulgarians to preserve the Bulgarian language. “Let us preserve the Bulgarian language, which makes us a nation, connects us, unites us, and defines our national identity,” she said at the event, held outside the Sts Cyril and Methodius National Library.

“Today, not because we must, but because we want to, we gather across the country in the homes of Bulgarian spirituality — schools and community centres, theatres and libraries — guided by a deep and pure love passed down through generations. Today, everyone stands before these buildings [...] because today is the holiday of Bulgaria,” Iotova said.

Тhe President added that no victory can be meaningful unless its written legacy and memory are preserved, and no achievement is worthwhile unless it leads to the advancement of the people and culture. “No defeat will ever be fateful as long as we preserve our faith and conscience,” she said.

With “prayer and much love,” Iotova paid tribute to Bulgarian teachers. “If someone tells you today that algorithms will soon replace you, do not believe them. They do not know what it means to be a Bulgarian teacher — to guide children with a caring hand along the path of goodness and to open before them the great book of curiosity,” Iotova said. She also praised university professors, scholars, writers, librarians, artists, journalists, and cultural workers for preserving and advancing Bulgarian spirituality, knowledge, and identity.

“Blessed be you above all, Bulgarian children. We are proud of you. You are the future of Bulgaria,” the President added.

Earlier in the day, Iotova took part in a ceremonial procession in Sofia marking May 24.

/IV/