site.btaPresident Confers Madara Horseman Order on Bulgaria’s Honorary Consul in Hesse

President Rumen Radev on Wednesday conferred the Madara Horseman Order, First Class, on Dr. Ingo-Endrick Lankau, Bulgaria’s Honorary Consul in the federal state of Hesse.

At an official ceremony held in the Coat of Arms Hall, the head of State honoured Dr. Lankau for his contribution to the development and strengthening of relations between Bulgaria and Germany, as well as for his long-standing support for Bulgarian institutions and citizens.

During the ceremony, President Radev said that for over two decades, Dr Lankau has played a key role in reinforcing the ties between Bulgaria and the state of Hesse, promoting active cultural exchange and cooperation in the field of fire safety and disaster protection. The President also highlighted Dr. Lankau’s contribution to building the General Directorate Fire Safety and Civil Protection into a modern European structure, along with his generous assistance and donations in support of Bulgarian institutions.

"With your selfless work and expert contribution, you have proven to be a person with a generous heart, strong civic commitment, and sincere compassion," said President Radev, wishing Dr. Lankau good health, longevity, and "an inspiring presence in every one of his public endeavors."

Dr. Ingo-Endrick Lankau expressed his gratitude for the honor and said that he has always worked wholeheartedly to promote Bulgaria in Germany. He recalled that, since becoming Honorary Consul in 2004, he has strived to make Bulgaria "more visible politically, economically, and socially" in the state of Hesse.

"Europe needs Bulgaria, and Bulgaria needs Europe," said Dr. Lankau, emphasizing that his main mission has been to break down prejudices and present Bulgaria as a country with a rich culture, highly educated population, and significant economic potential. He noted that he has always followed two guiding principles: never to criticize Bulgaria abroad, and to always act in its support when invited to do so.

On his initiative, a long-term partnership was established between Hesse and Bulgaria in the field of firefighting, which includes regular exchanges and training of Bulgarian firefighters at the province’s specialized academy.

"It is a great honor and pleasure for me to work for Bulgaria, and I hope to continue this mission in the future,"Dr. Lankau said.

A speech was also delivered by Matilda Mateva, a student at the Specialized High School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics  in Botevgrad, who took on the role of  the president as part of the Manager for a Day initiative, hosted by the presidential administration. Mateva gave her entire speech in German, expressing her gratitude for Dr. Lankau’s contribution to the development and deepening of relations between Bulgaria and Germany.

The ceremony was also attended by Vice President Iliana Iotova, representatives of the Ministry of Interior, and guests from Germany.