At an official ceremony at the Boyana Residence, President Rumen Radev sent key messages to Bulgarian diplomats, analyzing the challenges of the contemporary international environment. The event, organized by Minister of Foreign Affairs Georg Georgiev, brought together leading political figures and diplomatic representatives.
The head of state emphasized the exceptional importance of foreign policy, which must be freed from narrow party interests and follow clearly formulated national goals. The main criterion for success, according to the president, should be professionalism, not party affiliation.
In his address, Radev outlined the complex geopolitical situation, characterized by high dynamics of processes, a complicated security environment, and intense economic competition. He underscored the need for Bulgarian diplomacy to strengthen national authority and amplify the country's voice in international unions.
Among the main priorities, the president highlighted the economic dimension of diplomacy - attracting investments, stimulating exports, and promoting the country. He reminded of lost market positions in regions such as North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, calling for the restoration of economic presence.
Radev emphasized the importance of membership in key international organizations like Schengen, the Eurozone, and the OECD, calling for them not to be viewed as formal achievements, but as instruments for real reforms and improving the lives of Bulgarian citizens.
In the context of security, the president expressed gratitude to diplomats for their role in developing defense capacity and strengthening collective defense within NATO and the EU. He insisted on a more active position in achieving peace and respecting international law.
Among the strategic foreign policy priorities, Rumen Radev highlighted the European integration of the Western Balkans, defining it as a key contribution to the consolidation of European space. At the same time, he emphasized the need for a strict approach to EU expansion, based on the merits of the candidate countries.
In conclusion, the president called for full unity among institutions and emphasized the exceptional importance of the diplomatic service for national security and prosperity. He expressed confidence that investments in the diplomatic corps have a many times greater effect than the expenses incurred.
The ceremony reinforced the message that successful foreign policy requires professionalism, continuity, national consensus, and clearly formulated strategic goals.