site.btaPresident Receives National Day Greetings from World Leaders and Organizations

President Rumen Radev received greetings messages on National Day from leaders around the world and international organizations, the President's press secretariat reported. On March 3, Bulgaria celebrated 146 years since its liberation from Ottoman Turkish rule.

US President Joe Biden underscored the deep partnership and friendship between the two countries. He said Bulgaria's historic steps, including its progress in energy diversification, the promotion of the rule of law and the fight against disinformation, have further strengthened the relationship between the two nations and have laid the foundation for a brighter future. Biden expressed his conviction that Washington and Sofia will continue to cooperate in building a more peaceful, prosperous and democratic world.

Chinese President Xi Jinping praised Radev for his dedication to Bulgaria's economic and social development and his active role in cooperation with China. Xi said this year is the 75th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations, which provides a good opportunity to strengthen mutual political confidence, boost communication and coordination, and deepen Beijing's strategic partnership with Sofia.

Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen acknowledged the excellent and cordial relationship between the two countries. He noted the great importance of Austria's partnership with Bulgaria in the context of the challenges facing Europe. Van der Bellen is confident that the issue of Schengen area enlargement will be resolved very soon in a way that is beneficial for all.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis expects that bilateral relations will develop further in the spirit of friendship and good-neighbourliness. The two neighbours' strategic partnership, sealed a year ago, has contributed significantly to a deepening of bilateral ties. It reflects the commitment of Romania and Bulgaria, as partners and allies in the EU and NATO, to maintain close coordination in addressing challenges and protecting European security in a complicated international context, Iohannis said.

President Radev also received National Day greetings from the leaders of Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Belgium, Japan, Croatia, Czechia, Armenia, Estonia, South Korea, Kazakhstan, Egypt, India, Azerbaijan, Ghana and Sri Lanka, among many others. Representatives of international organizations also sent messages.