This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Sovereign Order of Malta and the Republic of Bulgaria. The anniversary was celebrated with a special international conference.
„In fact, the Order of Malta performs the function of an added value – what is the humanitarian activity of the body is to help. Diplomatic relations with the Order of Malta for 30 years are relations that are in the function of implementing humanitarian activities, said Bogdan Patashev - Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Holy See and to the Sovereign Order of Malta (2019-2023).< /p>
„In 2005, an active representative of the Order of Malta came – Camillo Zuccoli, who was a counselor at the embassy. With the opening of a diplomatic mission in Sofia, the opening of countless humanitarian actions in the country became possible," noted Patashev.
„The mission of the order is to maintain and protect the faith and to serve precisely through faith to all those in need. The Order maintains diplomatic relations with 113 countries from all over the world, as well as having the status of a permanent observer in the UN and the most important international organizations, noted Prof. Mira Markova - Dean of the Faculty of History at SU "St. Kliment Ohridski", with whose special support the conference was organized.
For the 30 years during which the order has had a diplomatic mission in our country, it has held over 500 charity events in over 250 different organizations in different settlements in our country. Where there is a shortage of daily resources, medical equipment or teaching materials, the Order's volunteers work tirelessly and are truly empathetic.
Many Bulgarian hospitals received donations of ambulances, equipment and various types of medical equipment. “I am happy that the Faculty of History is hosting this event. It is very important for us to talk about faith, charity and true empathy within the framework of the best academic institution in Bulgaria, namely SU, Prof. Markova concluded.
„Diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and the Sovereign Order of Malta are a sign not only of mutual recognition, but also of appreciation for the humanitarian activities of the Order in Bulgaria and around the world, as well as for deepening our cooperation and joint projects in areas of mutual interest . Your contribution to maintaining dialogue and peace in the context of global challenges is invaluable. We greatly appreciate the Order of Malta's humanitarian aid for Ukrainian refugees, as well as support for those affected by conflict and hostilities worldwide. I am confident that the celebration of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Sovereign of Malta will build on our excellent relations in a positive aspect,” said Maria Angelieva, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria.
