You, the Bulgarian soldiers in KFOR, are the guarantor of the security not only of Bulgaria, but of the entire region, which unfortunately still cannot find the security and stability that we all desire.
This was stated by Vice President Iliana Yotova, quoted by dariknews.bg, at the headquarters of the NATO peacekeeping force in Kosovo KFOR, where the Bulgarian military contingent celebrated the Day of Bravery and the holiday of the Bulgarian Army.
„You are the guarantor of the security not only of Bulgaria, but of the entire region, which unfortunately still cannot find the security and stability that we all desire. You, the Bulgarian soldiers here, know best what the price of peace is, you bequeath these messages to those who come after you. There are not one or two moments in which you fight so that people have peace, security and stability“, said Yotova in an address to the Bulgarian military at the “Film City“ base.
She congratulated the military on today's St. George's Day and emphasized that for Bulgarians the holiday is even greater, since it is a holiday of the brave Bulgarian army, which in its centuries-old history has recorded many victories in difficult battles“.
“I am here today to wish you to be as brave, responsible and proud that here in Kosovo you hold the Bulgarian flag high and serve as an example. I know that a large part of your hearts and souls are in your homeland, Bulgaria. But we also think of you, because we are proud of your service, achievements and high morale“, the Vice President also noted.
„I sincerely wish you to be among the people of strong character who know the true meaning of words like duty and honor“, concluded Vice President Yotova.
Yotova was welcomed by the KFOR Commander, Major General Enrico Barduani. Also present were the Deputy KFOR Commander, Brig. Gen. Gahit Irikan and the National Commander of the Bulgarian Contingent in Kosovo, Lieutenant Colonel Hristo Vassilev.
The KFOR Commander, Major General Enrico Barduani, thanked Bulgaria and the Bulgarian military for their dedication and courage.
„I would like to express my deepest respect for the Bulgarian Armed Forces and gratitude for their commitment to our common mission. Today we pay tribute to the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of Bulgarian soldiers in the past and today, who fight for their country and contribute to peace and stability beyond their national borders“, he said.
Major General Barduani stressed that he was proud of the integrity and commitment with which the Bulgarian military approaches their duties. “This day, inspired by St. George, reminds us of our noble work and the power of unity. Thank you for your dedication, courage and extraordinary contribution to KFOR“, he also noted and added that today the Bulgarian soldiers in KFOR number nearly 250 people.
Iotova also viewed an exhibition of weapons, equipment and equipment at the KFOR base “Film City” in Pristina.
The Vice President departed for a visit to Montenegro, which will last until May 8.