On August 15, 2024, H. E. Mr. Sanjay Rana, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Bulgaria,

and his wife, Mrs. Barbara Jaworska, hosted a National Day reception to celebrate the 78th Independence Day of the Republic of India. During this momentous occasion, Ambassador Rana, alongside the Chief Guest, H. E. Mr. Nayden Todorov, the Minister for Culture of the Republic of Bulgaria, launched celebrations commemorating 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bulgaria by unveiling a special logo prepared for the event.

In his remarks, Ambassador Rana emphasized the sentiments of Indian President H. E. Mrs. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister H. E. Mr. Narendra Modi. He paid tribute to the countless freedom fighters and leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, whose sacrifices paved the way for India's independence in 1947 and whose vision continues to guide India’s development into a vibrant and dynamic nation. He noted that today, India has grown to become not only the largest democracy in the world but also the fastest-growing economy, currently ranking as the fifth-largest economy globally. Furthermore, India's remarkable progress in science and technology is highlighted by its achievements in space exploration.

Ambassador Rana highlighted that as India and Bulgaria celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, Bulgaria is regarded by India as a strategic partner and one of its closest friends within the European Union. The relationship between the two nations continues to advance across various areas of mutual interest, including regular high-level contacts, increased trade and investment, and growing cultural, educational, and capacity-building cooperation. Both countries are also actively exploring new avenues in green hydrogen, electric vehicles, batteries, e-waste recycling, and defense production.

Expressing deep gratitude to the Bulgarian government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for their support in enhancing cooperation with India, Ambassador Rana acknowledged contributions from the East-West Indological Foundation, Friends of India Club, Devam Foundation, and the India Association in fostering cultural ties and people-to-people connections.

Minister Nayden Todorov shared his impressions of India from his recent visit to participate in the meeting of UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi. He expressed amazement at witnessing India’s famous diversity and the high levels of satisfaction and happiness among its people. He recounted his enchanting experience of visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra and encouraged everyone to explore India. During his trip, he met with his Indian counterpart, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, to discuss possibilities for joint cultural initiatives, including the exchange of exhibitions and translations of literary works in both languages.

The reception, held at the Indian residence in Boyana under the Vitosha Mountain, was well-attended by dignitaries, ministers, eminent members of Bulgarian civil society, and members of the diplomatic corps in Sofia. Guests enjoyed a delightful selection of Indian cuisine prepared by Chefs Biser and Deepak for the occasion.

Adding a special charm to the evening, a captivating dance performance by a renowned Indian group led by Ms. Arupa Lahiri from the Indian Council of Cultural Relations delighted the audience with the grace of classical Indian Bharatanatyam dance. Ambassador Rana announced plans for several special cultural events to be held in Sofia and other cities of Bulgaria as part of the ongoing celebrations for 70 years of India-Bulgaria diplomatic relations.

Additionally, Ambassador Rana shared with the Diplomatic Spectrum especially that the Indian Embassy had organized a tree-planting event on the morning of 15 August as part of the #Plant4Mother campaign. Together with members of the Indian community and Bulgarian dignitaries, including former Foreign Minister and EU Commissioner Mrs. Mariya Gabriel, Mayor of Slatina Mr. Georgi Illiev, and Deputy Mayor of Sofia Mr. Nikola Barbutov, Ambassador Rana participated in planting walnut, plum, cherry, and fig trees to symbolize their shared commitment to environmental protection for future generations.

The photos are provided by the Embassy of the Republic of India in the Republic of Bulgaria. Above: H. E. Mr. Sanjay Rana, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Bulgaria, and his wife Mrs. Barbara Jaworska with the guest of honor - H. E. Mr. Nayden Todorov, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Bulgaria