The dedicated work of Ambassador Alejandro Sotner Meyer in Bulgaria supported the development of relations with Argentina and contributed to the strengthening and expansion of the bilateral political and economic dialogue. This was stated by the Head of State Iliana Yotova during a ceremony in the Coat of Arms Hall of the presidential institution, at which the Ambassador of the Republic of Argentina to Bulgaria Alejandro Sotner Meyer was honored with the Order of the "Madara Horseman", First Class. The award is presented to the diplomat for his particularly great services to the development of bilateral relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of Argentina.
In his greeting, the head of state highlighted the professional experience and fruitful work of Ambassador Meyer in Bulgaria, and according to her, his efforts have encouraged cultural and educational ties between the two peoples. “You have gained many friends in your country, but through you we have also gained many friends from Argentina. You have expanded the influence and importance of Argentina for Bulgarian citizens“, said President Yotova. She pointed out that this year marks 95 years since the beginning of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Argentina.
On behalf of Bulgaria, the head of state expressed gratitude for the valuable support of the Argentine side for the conduct of the annual national Antarctic expeditions, as well as for the deepening of the strategic cooperation in the study of Antarctica between the Bulgarian Navy and the Argentine Armada. "This cooperation is developing very well and has a great future – to continue with research in the field of climate change and to protect nature", she pointed out.
Iliyana Yotova also emphasized the diplomatic efforts of Ambassador Meyer during the organized visit of the governor of the Argentine province of Chaco to Bulgaria – a place that, according to the head of state, is filled with historical sentiment for Bulgarians. "Chaco is a place filled with sentiment for Bulgarians. There have been our compatriots there since the end of the 19th century. "And today, many surnames end with Bulgarian endings," the head of state emphasized.
The Bulgarian President also recalled the importance of the signed bilateral agreement on cooperation and friendship between the Municipality of Pleven and the Argentine Municipality of Roque Saenz Peña.
"I am sure that whatever path you take from now on, you will remain one of Bulgaria's best friends and will always contribute to the development of our bilateral relations", the President said.
Ambassador Alejandro Sotner Meyer expressed gratitude for the high state award received and for the support that Bulgaria provides to Argentina in the process of the country's accession as a global partner to NATO. "We will remember the rich history, cultural and architectural heritage of Bulgaria, the landscapes and the mountains. We will return to Bulgaria for sure. Count on me", the diplomat added.