National Day Message by H. E. Mr. Alfredo Nestor Atanasoff, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Argentina to the Republic of Bulgaria

Argentines, compatriots in the Republic of Bulgaria, dear Bulgarian friends!

Today, on the 9^thof July, we celebrate 205 years since the publication of the Declaration of Independence of Argentina. This is not the first step towards freedom. The May Revolution, fueled by battles with forces, is in full swing. The Declaration of Independence does not end the war, nor does it succeed in reaching a general agreement between the provinces of Rio de la Plata. Approval from world powers is missing.

Nevertheless, the Declaration of Independence turned out to be the main pillar whereby gradual construction of our country began. We can confidently say that July 9th turns us into Argentines, because with that solemn act, in that city in the countryside, we, the Argentines, decided to proclaim to everyone that our choice is freedom. Thus, on that July 9th, the thirst for freedom conquered the whole region. With the efforts of the peoples and the soldiers, who fought side by side with Jose de San Martin, other Latin American countries began to declare their independence soon after. And there is no doubt that our independence is a cry for freedom that does not fade and that continues over time.

It is a great honor for me to celebrate July 9th in this part of the world, where in the year 1816 the local people, subjected to centuries of foreign oppression, urged for freedom and passionately longed to experience it. I feel proud because Argentina's independence, despite the country's geographical remoteness, certainly encourages the Balkan people in their quest to dedicate their lives to national interests and to live freely. As it was with us, for them independence is not just an ideal, but also hard work, perseverance and energy for the creation and strengthening of statehood. As we know from history, the process of gaining independence in the Balkans is neither easy nor short, it continues to this day.

Our experience teaches us that the path to independence is not easy, it is not short, but it is full of opportunities. It leads only forward, requires deprivation and hard work. This is a path that unites us, but also distinguishes us from other nations, without provoking rivalry, but on the contrary - brotherhood and interaction in the name of the well-being of all. Independence is dialogue, and dialogue is the truest friend of freedom.

Dear compatriots in Bulgaria, Let us spend this July 9th in reflection. Let us, on this date, remember the Motherland and our loved ones there. Let geographical distances not be a barrier to spiritual unity with our roots, but on the contrary - a bridge of rapprochement and patriotic pride in the deeds of those who in Tucuman, 205 years ago, chose freedom for their predestination and preserved feelings of friendship and solidarity with others.

The photo was provided by the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in the Republic of Bulgaria. On it: H. E. Mr. Alfredo Nestor Atanasoff, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Argentina to the Republic of Bulgaria