At a solemn ceremony held today in the Coat of Arms Hall of the Presidency, Head of State Rumen Radev conferred the Madara Horseman Order, First Class, on Austrian Ambassador Andrea Wicke for her contribution to the strengthening and development of Bulgarian-Austrian relations.

It is a real pleasure to present this award to a wonderful Austrian diplomat and a great and sincere friend of Bulgaria, the President said, highlighting the deep cultural and historical ties between Bulgaria and Austria and pointing out that through her work Ambassador Wicke has significantly contributed to the development of Bulgarian-Austrian relations in a wide range of areas. The top and high-level political dialogue has actively developed, trade and economic relations have deepened, we have seen an increase in trade, the Head of State said pointing to the investments in high-tech spheres, as well as the interaction in education, culture and science. The President expressed confidence that regardless of her next diplomatic appointment Andrea Wicke will continue to return to Bulgaria, which she has adopted as a second homeland.

Andrea Wicke thanked for the honour and stressed that both Bulgaria and Austria have always supported the development of the European Union and the integration of the Western Balkan countries. She added that she would keep wonderful memories of her work in this country and of Bulgaria in general.