On 9 June, H. E. Mrs. Eleonora Mitrofanova, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Bulgaria,

and her husband gave a reception at the Embassy on the occasion of the country's national holiday.

On June 12, 1990, the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Federation was adopted, which formed the basis of the first Constitution of the Russian Federation. Since then Russia Day is celebrated on this date.

The reception was attended by ambassadors and diplomats, representatives of the Russian diaspora in Bulgaria, political, social and cultural organizations.

In her welcoming address to her compatriots and guests, H. E. Mrs. Eleonora Mitrofanova said:

Dear compatriots and friends of Russia in Bulgaria!

At a time when the international environment is complicated and attempts are being made to ‘cancel’ and ‘cross out’ everything linked to Russia, today's holiday has taken on special significance for us. This day takes a special place in the heart of every person, who connects his past, present and future with Russia, who cares and worries for the Motherland.

Being part of a vast country with a great history and an immense contribution to world culture and science, we are ready to share with the Homeland not only the pride for the achievements and victories, but overcome all challenges together with her. Attempts to harm Russia through restrictions and sanctions not only fail to achieve the desired results, but also hit their initiators hard.

In fact, the current state of affairs has become an incentive for the Russian people to put all their energy and diligence, use their creative and intellectual potential for the development and prosperity of our native land. I am convinced that Russia and other centers of the multipolar world that refuse to follow an externally imposed ‘rule-based order’ will take a decent place in the changing system of international relations as well as continue to develop mutually beneficial cooperation with all states that are open to equal dialogue.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Each of us is aware that Russia's true treasure is its people. Not only those who live in Russia, but also representatives of foreign states who treat our country with warm feelings and affection. Therefore, today's occasion can rightly be considered our shared holiday. Thank you for your contribution and efforts to strengthen cooperation between Russia and Bulgaria.

Although at present the bilateral dialogue is not at the level of its potential, I believe that one day this page will be left behind. As we know from the 143-year-long history of the diplomatic relations between Russia and Bulgaria, a difficult period was inevitably followed by a new upturn.

Dear compatriots!

On Russia Day, we recall the centuries-long journey of the Russian state and pay tribute to the outstanding representatives of our country. I would like to thank you all for your active work to strengthen friendship and mutual understanding between the peoples of Russia and Bulgaria. I wish you good health and every success in your professional and public work.

Happy Russia Day, dear friends!

After her speech H. E. Mrs. Eleonora Mitrofanova presented awards for contribution to the dissemination of Russian language and culture abroad.

Then the guests indulged in lively conversations while trying traditional Russian dishes and drinks.

The photos are provided by the press service of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Bulgaria. On the photo above: H. E. Mrs. Eleonora Mitrofanova, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Bulgaria.