The head of State honours the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus with the Order of the Madara Horseman First Class

 

Bulgaria and Cyprus are an example of fruitful cooperation, of a common approach to the challenges of the European Union and actively contribute to peace, security and stability in our region, President Rumen Radev said today at a ceremony to award the Order of the Madara Horseman, First Class, to the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Bulgaria, HE Marios Savva Kountourides. The state award is for the diplomat's overall contribution to the development of Bulgarian-Cypriot relations. 

 

In his speech, the President highlighted Ambassador Kountourides' active work and consistent efforts for the development of political, economic and cultural ties and the advancement of relations in the spirit of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between Bulgaria and Cyprus. Radev pointed to Ambassador Kountourides' significant contribution to the successful interaction between Bulgaria and Cyprus on a number of important issues on the European Union's agenda, including the fight against illegal migration through the active contacts between the Ministries of Interior of the two countries.

 

Our fruitful relations are based on the deep cultural and historical ties between our peoples, the President said. The Bulgarian community in Cyprus consists of nearly 25,000 people, and there are a number of Cypriot citizens working in this country who graduated from Bulgarian universities. Today nearly 300 Cypriot students have chosen to continue their university education in Bulgaria. This is a valuable bridge that we will continue to develop, the head of State said. 

 

Ambassador Kountourides pointed out that relations between Bulgaria and Cyprus are based on mutual respect, shared values and common goals. He highlighted the trust and friendly attitude between our governments and peoples.