The prima donna of Bulgarian pop music, Lili Ivanova, received the honorary badge “Golden Laurel Branch” of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, presented by Minister Georg Georgiev at a solemn ceremony in the ministry building.
The award was presented on the eve of her upcoming concert on May 24th – the Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius – in the “Olympia” hall in Paris, an event of exceptional symbolism for Bulgarian cultural diplomacy.
The entire leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representatives of foreign missions honored the refined celebration, emotionally charged due to the presence of Lili Ivanova herself.
In his speech, Minister Georgiev emphasized that the award – the highest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – is an expression of deep institutional and human gratitude for Lili Ivanova's exceptional contribution to the establishment of Bulgaria's positive international image through cultural diplomacy. He noted that her long-standing and consistent creative path, as well as the international recognition she enjoys, far exceed the symbolism of any award. With marked respect and reverence, Minister Georgiev pointed out that whatever award Lili Ivanova receives, it is a speck compared to what she does for Bulgarian culture and for Bulgaria.
Sincerely moved, Lili Ivanova accepted the award and expressed her gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her, sharing that such recognition from a Bulgarian state institution has special value in her professional and personal path.
In a pleasant atmosphere, Lili Ivanova told the diplomats about the feelings with which she presents each song, about the choice of lyrics, about the pure Bulgarian language, which she always insists on being sung.
The diplomats had the opportunity to ask questions related to her career, and Lili Ivanova sincerely shared about meetings, travels, and concerts.
The prima donna also developed the philosophy on which her creative and life-long longevity is based - to look only ahead. “There is nothing behind, everything is in the future!”, she emphasized and did not hide that her daily life is subject to iron discipline.
“I only think about my songs and about my audience, part of which you are,” she addressed the diplomats. And she told about her upcoming concert in the “Olympia” hall in Paris, as well as about the charity concert in aid of the Fund of the Union of Bulgarian Artists.
The honorary badge “Golden Laurel Branch” is the highest award of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
So far, it has been awarded to politicians, statesmen and diplomats, as well as to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who have contributed to the promotion of Bulgarian spirituality, science, culture and economy abroad.
Lili Ivanova is among the first representatives from the field of culture to be awarded this prize.