The preservation of the Christian presence and legacy, as well as the support for religious peace in the Holy Land as a model for tolerance and understanding were discussed today at the Presidency by President Rumen Radev at a meeting with Rami Moghrabi and Nader Moghrabi - advisors of the Patriarch of Jerusalem, His Holiness Theophilos III, who are visiting this country. The meeting was also attended by His Eminence Bishop Gerasim of Melnik, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

On behalf of the Patriarch of Jerusalem, the guests offered blessings to the Bulgarian people and wishes for peace, health and prosperity. They informed the President about the blessing of His Holiness Theophilos III for the opening of a spiritual Bulgarian centre in Jordan on the site of the baptism of Jesus Christ.

Head of State Rumen Radev reaffirmed this country's support for the protection of the Christian presence in the Holy City and the strengthening of peaceful coexistence between the representatives of different religions. The culture of tolerance and understanding between communities of different faiths has deep roots in Bulgaria. This model should be promoted in today's world of different challenges, President Radev said. He highlighted the role of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church in promoting the faith and Orthodox virtues, as well as the cooperation with other denominations.

The Head of State and his guests stressed that the values of peace and humanity should be defended with united efforts and that hatred should not be allowed to prevail.

The advisors of the Patriarch of Jerusalem will also be received at the Holy Synod.