site.btaDeputy Foreign Minister Receives Credentials of Newly Appointed Ukrainian and Georgian Ambassadors to Bulgaria

Deputy Foreign Minister Kostadin Kodzhabashev received copies of the credentials of the newly appointed Ambassadors of Ukraine and Georgia to Bulgaria - Olesya Ilashchuk and Otar Berdzenishvili, said the Foreign Ministry here on Tuesday.

During the meeting with Ambassador Ilashchuk, Deputy Minister Kodzhabashev noted the excellent relations between Bulgaria and Ukraine, which are an expression of the deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries. He stressed that the two countries are also tied by the largest Bulgarian community abroad [in Ukraine], amounting to over 200,000 people.

Bulgaria's firm and consistent support for Ukraine in the context of the unprovoked Russian armed aggression was reaffirmed in the course of the talks. Emphasis was placed on the fact that Bulgaria is the 6th largest contributor on a gross domestic product basis, as well as on the support provided in accordance with Bulgarian National Assembly's decisions, including for the assistance to the civilian population and Ukrainian refugees. Special emphasis was placed on support for Ukraine's territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including territorial waters, as well as Bulgaria's support for Kyiv in holding Russia accountable.

Ambassador Ilashchuk thanked for the support provided by Bulgaria, stressing that it is highly appreciated by the Ukrainian people.

During the meeting with Ambassador Berdzenishvili, Deputy Minister Kodzhabashev highlighted the excellent cooperation between Bulgaria and Georgia - both regionally and internationally. Bulgaria considers its relations with Georgia within the Eastern Partnership and the Black Sea region a priority, providing active support through Official Development Assistance, he added. Bulgaria has traditionally and actively supported Georgia's European and Euro-Atlantic perspective and its territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, Kodzhabashev stated. As a sign of support, it was also specifically noted that Bulgaria is the only country to have performed the role of NATO Contact Point Embassy in Georgia three times. The opportunities for deepening cooperation in various areas of mutual interest were also discussed.