Vezhdi Rashidov has died after a short illness, relatives of the sculptor told BTA.

Prime minister Rumen Radev paid tribute in a post: "Bulgaria has lost Vezhdi Rashidov, a prominent sculptor, an artist with a strong personality and a public presence."

Radev called him a man of character who stood by his views even when it was politically awkward. He said Rashidov's work would leave a mark on Bulgarian culture that cannot be erased.

Radev offered his condolences to the sculptor's family and friends and added: "I bow my head to his bright memory!"

Updated (06.11, 11:59): The president's press office says the words came from President Iliana Iotova in a condolence message, not from Prime Minister Rumen Radev in a post, as first reported. Iotova sent her condolences to the family and friends of the sculptor. She said Bulgaria has lost a great name in its cultural, public and political life. Vezhdi Rashidov was culture minister and speaker of the 48th National Assembly.