Being independent does not mean surrounding yourself with walls and living in your own self-sufficiency, but being part of this human diplomacy that spreads virtues beyond the borders of the country. In this sense, we highly value the contribution of Bulgarians in the USA to strengthening the friendship between our two countries and to preserving and popularizing Bulgarian traditions and culture. This was stated by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov at the reception at our Consulate General in New York on the occasion of 117 years since the declaration of Bulgaria's independence. The Prime Minister especially highlighted the role of the educational initiatives of Bulgarians in the USA and the activities of Sunday schools, which are a guarantee for the preservation of the Bulgarian language among the youngest generation and actively contribute to the preservation of the Bulgarian spirit, self-awareness and culture. Zhelyazkov also highlighted the importance of the state policy for the development of Bulgarian communities abroad.
Regarding Bulgaria's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program, which is a major national priority, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov expressed hope that there will be a result very soon. The Prime Minister pointed out that not only have we fulfilled the technical criteria, but also in the past year 2024 a record reduction in the number of refusals was achieved - only 6%, which is the main criterion for inclusion in the program. Zhelyazkov emphasized that the abolition of the visa restriction will stimulate tourism and further develop the economic potential of our bilateral relations with the USA. A direct flight between New York and Sofia would also have a positive effect.
The Prime Minister specially congratulated the representatives of the Bulgarian community on the occasion of Bulgaria's Independence Day and noted that the greatest victories of Bulgarians were achieved when our people were united. As another vivid example of this in our history, Zhelyazkov pointed to the Unification. Thus, we have achieved one of the greatest peaks that place us in the first row of worthy nations - the rescue of Bulgarian Jews, the Prime Minister emphasized. Prime Minister Zhelyazkov also highlighted the important role of Bulgarian diplomacy in the turning points of history.
We live in complex times, the world is faced with challenges, crises, but it seems that the lessons learned have their own importance. You are witnesses to how carefully everyone approaches, even in difficult situations, said Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Bulgaria's membership in NATO and the EU. When we are together, sharing the same values - humanism, democracy, the virtues that unite us - then we have the fragile optimism that we will survive as people and as a nation, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov also stated.