On the occasion of the 54^th anniversary of the founding of the United Arab Emirates, celebrated this year under the theme "United,"

H. E. Mr. Abdulrahman Aljaber, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of Bulgaria, hosted a reception on December 5^th, 2025, at the Hilton Sofia.

The event brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of state institutions and international organizations, business leaders, media, and friends of the Emirates in Bulgaria. Her Excellency Mrs. Iliana Yotova, Vice President of the Republic of Bulgaria, H. E. Mrs. Yuliana Mateeva, Vice President of the National Assembly, H. E. Mr. Miroslav Borshosh, Minister of Tourism, Her Royal Highness Kalina, Princess of Bulgaria and Mr. Kitin Munos were among the dignitaries that attended the event.

In his address, His Excellency Ambassador Aljaber highlighted the enduring values of unity, solidarity, and social cohesion that define Emirati society. He noted that this milestone coincides with the declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Community" by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him. This initiative reflects the leadership’s deep confidence in the people of the UAE and their vital role in the nation’s continued progress.

The Ambassador recalled that since the establishment of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy on his soul, placed human development at the core of the national vision, laying strong foundations in education, healthcare, social justice, and balanced development across all emirates. This legacy continues today through forward-looking strategies focused on sustainability, innovation, and human empowerment, positioning the UAE as a global model of resilience and progress.

E. Mr. Abdulrahman Aljaber reaffirmed that the UAE’s foreign policy is guided by balance, openness, and dialogue, emphasizing that peace and development are inseparable pillars for building a better future. In this context, the Ambassador highlighted the strong and friendly relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Bulgaria, which are based on mutual respect and shared interests, and expressed the aspiration to further expand cooperation across economic, political, cultural, and other fields.

The speech also addressed the UAE’s strong economic performance, including significant growth in non-oil foreign trade and the expansion of strategic international partnerships. The Ambassador emphasized the UAE’s continued commitment to tolerance and coexistence, reinforcing its global standing as a hub of cultural diversity and dialogue, as well as its cooperation with international organizations to safeguard world cultural heritage.

In the field of advanced technology, the Ambassador underscored the UAE’s achievements in artificial intelligence, including the launch of the Arab Falcon, the first Arabic-language AI model, and the establishment of the largest AI center of its kind outside the United States, affirming the country’s leadership in government AI readiness.

His Excellency Ambassador Aljaber concluded by reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to cooperation, openness, and constructive engagement with the international community, and by expressing appreciation to all those who have contributed to strengthening relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Bulgaria.

"Happy Anniversary to the UAE, and may the entire world be blessed with peace, harmony and prosperity", were His Excellency’ concluding wishes to all.

The evening featured vibrant cultural performances by the visiting Emirati dance group, as well as a traditional Emirati corner, showcasing artisan handicrafts and Arabic coffee, set beneath a traditional Arabic tent. Guests also had the opportunity to enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine and experience the richness of the country’s diverse culinary heritage.

The reception concluded on a hopeful note for peace, shared prosperity, and the further deepening of the strong and friendly relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Bulgaria.

The material was provided by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Republic of Bulgaria.