Building on long-standing ties and amid a number of new global and regional challenges, Bulgaria and Iraq are seeing prospects for a new dynamic in bilateral cooperation. This was stated by Head of State Rumen Radev today at a ceremony, where he awarded the Order of Madara Horseman, First Class, to the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to Bulgaria, H.E. Lina Omar. The state award is for the diplomat's contribution to the advancement of bilateral relations.

In his speech, the president pointed out that Bulgaria highly values its relations with Iraq, which is an important partner in the Middle East region. Our traditionally friendly relations are characterised by active political dialogue at all levels, Rumen Radev said, adding that their dynamics have been preserved despite the profound geopolitical changes that occurred at the end of the 20th century. Today, cooperation between Bulgaria and Iraq continues to develop with the same intensity and success, the president said, highlighting the decades-long interaction between the two countries in a number of areas of mutual interest, including defence and security, trade, energy, construction, transport, active exchange in the fields of science and education, youth, and sports.

The Head of State also noted the active work of Ambassador Lina Omar in Bulgaria. With her initiative and consistency, Ambassador Omar has succeeded in contributing to the strengthening of bilateral political contacts at all levels, including with regard to the autonomous Iraqi region of Kurdistan, Rumen Radev emphasised. According to him, the state award is an expression of Bulgaria's desire to deepen cooperation with Iraq, including consistent work with the country's new leadership. Along with the diplomat's endeavour to strengthen official contacts between Bulgarian and Iraqi institutions, the head of state also highlighted her work to consolidate contacts between the people of the two countries.

Ambassador Lina Omar expressed her gratitude for the honour and the state distinction she received. In her words, this recognition underscores the stable foundations of cooperation, trust, and mutual respect that the peoples of Bulgaria and Iraq have built over the years. It reaffirms the strength of our diplomatic relations, based on open and frank dialogue, shared interests, and a shared commitment to peace and prosperity, the diplomat added. She expressed confidence that the bilateral partnership will continue to develop in support of mutual interests and deepening the friendship between the two countries.