On February 20^th, 2025, H. E. Mr. Ghazi Hamed Alfadhli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Kuwait to the Republic of Bulgaria,

held a reception in the Hyatt Regency Sofia Hotel on the occasion of the 64^th Independence Day and the 34^th Liberation Day.

The date February 25^th - the National Day of the State of Kuwait, is associated with the country's Independence on June 19^th, 1961, and its Liberation on February 26^th, 1991. The two historical events are celebrated together as National Days.

E. Mr. Ghazi Hamed Alfadhli addressed his guests with a solemn official speech:

Your Excellencies Esteemed Deputy Ministers, Ambassadors and Representatives of the Diplomatic Missions and International Organizations accredited to Sofia, Esteemed Representatives of the Bulgarian Ministries, Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in the friendly Republic of Bulgaria, to welcome you all, to thank you and  to express my sincere appreciation for your distinguished attendance at this reception on the occasion of the 64^th  anniversary of the Independence Day and the 34^th  anniversary of the Liberation Day.

First of all, I am honored, along with my colleagues  the Embassy members, to convey our highest congratulations and sincere felicitations to His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah – may God preserve and protect them – wishing Their Highnesses continued health, well-being, and a long life, and also wishing to the loyal Kuwaiti people ongoing progress, prosperity, and advancement. 

Since the dawn of the Independence the State of Kuwait has been keen to establishing its international relations on the basis of mutual respect, spreading peace, non-interference in the affairs of other countries and not resolving conflicts through force, but rather trough understanding and respect for the international charters and treaties approved by the United Nations. Kuwait as a peace-loving country has done this by undertaking many positive mediations to defuse any tension that may arise in the region.  The State of Kuwait has also spared no effort in helping developing countries pave their way towards development.

Your Excellencies,
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

Kuwait and Bulgaria have long-standing relations that have spanned more than 62 years. These years were marked by many official visits at the highest levels, and 21 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed between the two countries to frame bilateral relations in all fields. I cannot fail to point out the great permanent understanding between the two friendly countries at the level of exchanging support in the International Organizations.

Kuwait also annually grants scholarships to Bulgarian students who are interested in studying Arabic at Kuwait University, and many of them are currently among us at this reception.

On the economic level, and in the context of the Embassy’s desire to increase trade exchange between the two countries, which does not reflect the depth of the distinguished bilateral relations between the friendly countries, the Embassy contributed to holding a virtual meeting last November between officials of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry in both countries and many economic agents from both sides participated in it. During the mentioned meeting, it was agreed that a delegation representing several Bulgarian companies will visit the State of Kuwait in the second quarter of this year to discuss increasing trade exchange with their counterparts in Kuwait.

Bulgaria is a popular tourist destination for many Kuwaiti citizens who visit the magnificent Bulgarian coasts as well as the beautiful capital Sofia. The number of Kuwaiti tourists has doubled since Bulgaria entered the Schengen area last year.

Last but not least, on the occasion of Kuwait being chosen as the Capital of the Arab Culture and Media for the year 2025, we invite everyone, especially those interested in Arab culture, to visit the State of Kuwait and to experience the events that will be held on this occasion, which include 98 cultural and media activities over a period of 235 days, Including 20 activities to stimulate investments in cultural projects, due to the importance that the State of Kuwait attaches to spreading Arab culture and its awareness of the importance of culture in bringing peoples together and spreading peace.

 In conclusion, let me once again extend my warm welcome to Your Excellencies Esteemed Ministers and Heads of the Diplomatic Missions,
distinguished guests and honorable attendees,  wishing you all continued health, happiness, prosperity and to the Republic of Bulgaria - further progress and prosperity, and to the entire world – peace.

Thank you for your attention!
Greetings of peace and blessings to all of you!

Then H. E. Mr. Ghazi Hamed Alfadhli, together with the present Ambassadors of various countries accredited to our country, cut the cake prepared especially for the occasion.

After the official part, the guests of the reception had the opportunity to engage in lively conversations, to explore the specially designed Kuwaiti corner in the hall, to see footage of the country's achievements on the video wall, and to listen to Kuwaiti traditional music.

Everyone enjoyed trying the delicious Arabic and local dishes, as well as the wonderful pastries and cake.

In the lobby, the guests could enjoy an exhibition revealing the beauties and achievements of the State of Kuwait. There, they could also obtain promotional, cultural and literary brochures and materials about the country.

The photos are provided by the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Sofia.

Above: H. E. Mr. Ghazi Hamed Alfadhli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Kuwait to the Republic of Bulgaria