On 15 August, H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Bulgaria,

hosted a reception in the Diamond Hall of Hotel Ramada Sofia to mark the country’s 80th Independence Day. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr. Hristo Polendakov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as ambassadors and diplomats, senior representatives of the state administration, business and the media, members of the Indian community in Bulgaria, and friends of India.

In his welcoming address, H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu proudly noted:

"Today, we gather to celebrate India's 80th Independence Day. On this momentous occasion, I extend my heartiest greetings to the Indian diaspora in Bulgaria and to our deep-rooted Bulgarian friends who join us in tonight's celebrations. As we celebrate, we bow our heads in deep gratitude to the architects of our freedom. Their sacrifice, vision, and unwavering commitment laid the foundation for the largest, most vibrant, and most pluralistic democracy in the world today.

Over the past eight decades, India has undergone a transformative journey. Today, India stands as a global engine of economic growth, a hub of technological innovation, and a leader in sustainable development. From our groundbreaking achievements in space exploration and digital public infrastructure to our commitment to the green energy transition, modern India blends its ancient heritage with a forward-looking vision for the global good."

The Ambassador also spoke about the relations between India and Bulgaria, which are firmly rooted in historical ties, mutual respect and shared democratic values.

"In recent years, our bilateral engagements have gained remarkable momentum. Our trade and investment corridors are expanding, particularly in high-growth sectors such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and renewable energy. Our economic and technological cooperation is yielding tangible results. The largest Indian IT companies have established thriving offices here in Bulgaria, underscoring the forward-looking nature of our partnership. Bulgarian businesses are increasingly looking to India’s vast market and the 'Make in India' initiative, while Indian companies view Bulgaria as a strategic, welcoming gateway to the European Union.

Beyond trade, it is the people-to-people ties that form the soul of our relations. The profound interest among Bulgarian citizens in Indian philosophy, Yoga, Ayurveda, and classical arts is deeply heartening. Similarly, the growing number of Indian students and professionals choosing to study and work in Bulgaria is adding a vibrant new chapter to our cultural bridge.

Just two months ago, in June 2026, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, made a highly successful official diplomatic visit to Sofia. During his productive meetings with His Excellency, Prime Minister Rumen Radev, and Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-Bulgaria Partnership. This high-level exchange injected fresh energy into our ties, emphasising the need for closer bilateral cooperation to navigate and de-risk in an increasingly volatile global environment. We are actively expanding our horizons beyond traditional trade into cutting-edge sectors, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, space technology, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.

Furthermore, as the implementation of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement advances, Bulgaria stands as a pivotal advocate for closer Euro-Indian economic integration, opening unprecedented market access for businesses in both our countries."

H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu then addressed his fellow citizens living in Bulgaria:

"You are living messengers of India. Through your hard work, integration into Bulgarian society, and preservation of your cultural roots, you have earned tremendous goodwill for our motherland. I thank you for your contributions and urge you to continue to act as a catalyst for strengthening the bonds between our two nations.

As India moves resolutely towards its vision of Viksit Bharat—a fully developed nation—we look forward to walking hand in hand with Bulgaria to strengthen our bilateral ties and to contribute together to global peace, stability, and prosperity."

In conclusion, he thanked "the government and the wonderful people of Bulgaria for their enduring hospitality and warmth."

On the Bulgarian side, a welcome address on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day of India was delivered by Mr. Hristo Polendakov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Following the official part of the event, the guests enjoyed the outstanding performances by "Kaya", a school for Indian dance led by Katya Tosheva, as well as a selection of unique specialties from traditional Indian cuisine served at the reception.

The event was the culmination of a festive day that had begun in the morning at the Embassy with a solemn ceremony for the hoisting of the national flag, attended by diplomats and members of the Indian community in Bulgaria.

The photographs were provided by the Embassy of the Republic of India in the Republic of Bulgaria.

Top: H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Bulgaria, delivering his speech.

Bottom. First row: Moments from the reception. Second row: Moments from the solemn ceremony of raising the national flag of India at the Embassy that morning.