On the occasion of the National Day of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Bulgaria,

H.E. Mr. Nader Saad, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Republic of Bulgaria, hosted a reception on 16 July in the Opal Hall of the Ramada Sofia Hotel.

The event was attended by Mr. Alexander Pulev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Investment and Industry; His Majesty Tsar Simeon II; deputy ministers; leaders of political parties and Members of Parliament; ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions; representatives of the business community, the cultural sector, and the media; as well as members of the Egyptian community and friends of Egypt.

Among the official guests was Dr. Ahmed Majdalani, former Minister of Labour and Social Development of the State of Palestine and member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization.

In his address, H.E. Mr. Nader Saad said that it was a great honour and genuine pleasure to welcome the distinguished guests gathered to celebrate these two landmark occasions:

"This month marks the 74th anniversary of the Revolution of 23rd of July 1952 a defining chapter in Egypt’s modern history embodying the aspirations of the Egyptian people for dignity national independence and social justice.

As we commemorate this important milestone in our national journey we are equally privileged to celebrate another historic occasion that belongs not only to Egypt but also to Bulgaria: one hundred years of diplomatic relations between our two friendly nations.

A century is far more than the passage of time It is the story of enduring friendship mutual respect and a partnership that has grown stronger with each passing generation.

 It is a testament to what two nations can achieve when they choose dialogue over division cooperation over isolation and mutual understanding over narrow interests."

His Excellency emphasized that over the past one hundred years, the bilateral relations between Egypt and Bulgaria have flourished across a broad range of fields. Political dialogue has been marked by closeness and a constructive spirit, economic cooperation has steadily expanded, while collaboration in education, science, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges has enriched our societies and further strengthened the bonds between our two nations.

"We are proud of all that our two countries have accomplished together.

Bulgarian engineers, professors, physicians, experts, and specialists have contributed significantly to Egypt’s development over the decades.

In turn, generations of Egyptian students, scholars, diplomats, and professionals have found in Bulgaria not merely a place to study or work, but a second home, forming lifelong friendships and becoming enduring bridges between our two nations.

Today this partnership continues to grow with renewed momentum. Annual bilateral trade now exceeds 1.5 billion US dollars, and Egypt proudly remains Bulgaria’s largest trading partner in the Middle East and Africa.

This evening also gives us the opportunity to express our profound appreciation to all those who, over the past century, have dedicated themselves to strengthening the friendship between Egypt and Bulgaria: government officials, diplomats, business leaders, academics, and members of civil society."

He concluded on an emotional note:

"The first century of our relations has given us a remarkable foundation. The second century will be defined by the choices we make together — by the partnerships we deepen, the bridges we continue to build, and the hopes we pass on to future generations.

May those who gather one hundred years from now to celebrate the bicentenary of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Bulgaria look back upon our generation and say about us that we remained faithful to the legacy we inherited. And courageous enough to leave them an even. stronger one.

Long live Bulgaria. Long live Egypt. Long live the friendship between our two nations!"

Following the Ambassador's heartfelt remarks, Mr. Alexander Pulev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Investment and Industry, addressed the guests on behalf of the Bulgarian side, extending his greetings on the occasion of both celebrations.

The highlight of the evening then followed — a surprise for those in attendance: the presentation of the special award marking the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Bulgaria. The award was bestowed upon His Majesty Tsar Simeon II, recognized as the "brightest and most inspiring symbol" of the longstanding relations between the two countries.

The celebration continued with performances of traditional Egyptian dances, followed by tastings of authentic Egyptian specialties and lively conversations among the guests.

The photographs are courtesy of the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Sofia.

Above (left to right): His Majesty Tsar Simeon II holding the special award presented on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Bulgaria; Mr. Alexander Pulev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Investment and Industry; and H.E. Mr. Nader Saad, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Republic of Bulgaria.