site.btaUPDATED Interior Ministry Marks 147th Anniversary with Wreath-Laying Ceremony in Sofia

The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior marked the 147th anniversary of its establishment with a wreath-laying ceremony at Sofia's Monument to the Unknown Soldier and a blessing of the ministry's colours on Sunday.

President Iliana Iotova said in a speech: "When Prince Alexander I of Battenberg established the Ministry of Interior back in 1879, it became one of the first ministries in our newly liberated homeland. This was no coincidence, because it reflected the understanding that statehood begins with strong institutions, and there can be no statehood without the rule of law and security for citizens."

Iotova said that July 5 is not merely an institutional anniversary but also a day to express gratitude to every police officer, firefighter and rescuer who puts others before themselves in fulfilling their duty.

"No society can move forward or achieve prosperity without such dedication and selflessness. Today, you [the system's officers] face another major challenge – to restore our belief that our homeland can once again be a state governed by the rule of law and that, together, we can overcome crime," the President added.

Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev greeted the ceremonial guard on the ministry's professional holiday and extended his best wishes to all Interior Ministry employees.

Demerdzhiev said: "The founders of the Third Bulgarian State demonstrated remarkable foresight in recognizing the Ministry of Interior as one of the foundations of Bulgarian statehood. Today, even greater expectations and hopes rest upon us. Bulgarian society expects the Interior Ministry to begin the process of freeing Bulgarian statehood from the tight grip of oligarchic influence, building a state in which institutions serve the people, and setting the country on a new path, different from the one followed during the past years of the Transition."

Patriarch Daniil, the Head of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, led a blessing ritual during the festive ceremony.

Daniil said: "Almighty Lord, we pray that You strengthen the hearts and the will of all Interior Ministry employees, so that they may love the homeland in which, by Your grace, they were raised and serve it faithfully and devotedly. Make them honest and worthy defenders of its borders, justice, public order, peace and dignity."

The anniversary ceremony in downtown Sofia was also attended by National Assembly Deputy Chair Ivan Angelov, government ministers, Members of Parliament, former interior ministers, and representatives of the diplomatic corps.

On the occasion, GERB leader Boyko Borissov wrote on Facebook to congratulate all Interior Ministry employees, who wear their insignia with honour and fulfil their duty every day with professionalism, dignity, and responsibility. In his message, Borissov expressed hope that their courage and dedication would be duly recognized. He extended his best wishes for good health and peace of mind to the ministry’s employees and their families.

In a congratulatory message to Interior Ministry employees, Movement for Rights and Freedoms leader Delyan Peevski expressed gratitude for their work in protecting the security of Bulgarian citizens and upholding law and order. Peevski wished them good health, dedication, and unwavering commitment to their professional duties, as well as success in meeting the challenges of their work.