Radev meets with representatives of the Bulgarian community in Riyadh

 

There is no way Bulgaria can stride forward until we eliminate the behind-the-scenes model, as well as the lack of responsibility in decision-making and leading the state in a direction unknown to anyone, which is in the minds of only a very limited circle of people. This was stated by President Rumen Radev in response to a question from representatives of the Bulgarian community in Riyadh. The head of state met with our compatriots in the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who put their questions to him. Radev, accompanied by his wife, is on a visit to Riyadh.

 

About 150 Bulgarians live in Saudi Arabia, most of whom are highly qualified professionals working in the fields of information technology, engineering, finance, banking and other fields. At his meeting with representatives of the community, which took place at our embassy in Riyadh, the head of state stated that the successes of our compatriots are not just personal achievements, but are also successes for our country, which is presented in an extremely positive perspective. You are an example of dedication, hard work, and high qualifications, said Radev, adding that these efforts stand out in the high-level political talks he leads. The successes of Bulgarians in Saudi Arabia contribute to the deepening and development of bilateral relations, the head of state added.

 

After Radev's greeting, questions from our compatriots focused on the development of Bulgaria. Asked when he expects change to occur in Bulgaria in the way he sees it, the President expressed his conviction that there must be and will be changes. In order for Bulgaria to move confidently and develop forward as a modern European democratic state, there must be clear responsibility in the government. This is a key condition for us to achieve success. There must also be a clear, open face to this government, he added. He made an analogy with the government in Saudi Arabia and asked whether it was possible for someone other than the Prime Minister of the country to govern it and stand above it, not have any formal authority, but every morning, noon and evening to order the Prime Minister what to do, how to do it, with whom to do it.

 

According to the head of state, in order for Bulgaria to be a prosperous country, it is necessary to prioritise the education of young people, as well as to guarantee the protection of property and freedom of business. The mechanisms of governance in the relations between the state, business and society must change in order to reach normal European standards, Radev pointed out. In order for Bulgaria to achieve sustainable economic growth, to have innovative production and investments, Bulgarian business must be free from racketeering and institutional pressure from people who use institutions to racketeer our business, Radev said.

 

In response to a question about the opportunities for developing the bilateral partnership, President Radev pointed out that innovation and artificial intelligence offer prospects for developing cooperation between Bulgaria and Saudi Arabia, as the topic was discussed today at his meeting with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman. Our country continues to develop thanks to the talent and efforts of its enterprising people as an innovation centre for the whole of Southeast Europe, Radev said and highlighted the abilities of young Bulgarians. During the meeting, questions were also raised about promoting tourist connections, as well as the opening of a direct airline between Sofia and Riyadh.