The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria hosted a ceremonial event marking the issuance of a special jubilee edition of a postage stamp. The event was dedicated to the 70th anniversary of Bulgaria's membership in the United Nations (UN). In an atmosphere of solemnity, the ceremony brought together representatives of the political elite and the diplomatic corps.
Among those present were the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications, as well as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. These high-ranking officials had the honor of placing the first stamp on the jubilee edition of the postage stamp, thus symbolizing the country's dedication to the principles of multilateral diplomacy.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized the importance of cooperation within the UN. "Bulgaria views multilateralism and the UN as the most effective instrument for addressing the challenges in the modern international environment", he said in his speech. He highlighted Bulgaria's long-standing commitment to the principles and goals enshrined in the UN Charter, which form the basis for peace, security, and sustainable development.
The Minister expressed the country's support for the reform process within the UN system. The aim is for the organization to respond more adequately to dynamic global challenges, including conflicts, instability, and acts of terrorism.
For his part, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications noted the key role of the jubilee postage stamp. "The postage stamp is a small artistic canvas that easily crosses borders and tells our story. With it, significant events are imprinted in the collective memory of generations", he emphasized. The stamp will carry Bulgaria's message to the world as an active and constructive member of the Organization.
The issuance of postage stamps dedicated to international organizations has a long tradition in Bulgaria. This practice dates back to the early 1960s. Among the editions, stamps dedicated to the Red Cross, the World Wildlife Fund, UNESCO, and, of course, the UN stand out.
The first Bulgarian postage stamp paying tribute to the United Nations was issued in 1961.
During the ceremony, the Minister of Foreign Affairs awarded the prizes to the finalists in the national student essay competition. The theme of the competition was "Bulgaria in the UN: the voice of small and medium-sized countries in world politics".
"The young people who analyze, participate, and work on topics related to multilateral diplomacy are the next step in the development of our participation in the UN system", the first diplomat noted. He emphasized the importance of the active engagement of the Bulgarian public, especially the youth, in affirming the country's authority within the organization. The Minister expressed appreciation to the UN Association in Bulgaria, which over the years has become a valuable partner and authoritative advisor on foreign policy issues.
First prize in the essay competition was awarded to Lazara Prichkapova. She will have the opportunity to be part of the Bulgarian delegation for the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The finalists Yordan Petrov, Nikolay Shukerov, and Ivana Yotova were also awarded certificates and encouragement prizes.