On February 26, at the Central Military Club in Sofia, H.E. Mr. Rami bin Saud Al-Otaibi,

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Bulgaria, gave a reception on the occasion of the Kingdom's Foundation Day. Officials, ambassadors and diplomats, representatives of culture, media and business, and friends of the country were present.

His Excellency addressed his guests with a welcoming speech:

I am pleased to welcome you today as we come together to commemorate Founding Day, which falls on February 22, 1727. On this occasion, we celebrate the beginning of a great journey—the establishment of our nation by Imam Muhammad bin Saud during a time filled with challenges and significant events.

Founding Day is not merely a date we mark on the calendar; it represents the starting point of a path built on unity, strength, and perseverance. Imam Muhammad bin Saud worked to unify and fortify our ranks, laying the groundwork for what has become the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Despite the many challenges of that time, his wisdom and vision enabled him to establish a strong foundation for a prosperous future.

Your Excellencies and Highnesses,

As we celebrate Founding Day each year on February 22, we remember that this day marks the birth of a nation built on the values of unity between leadership and the people. It is a history rich with determination and sacrifice—values that we take pride in and that continue to guide us today. These principles remain at the core of the Kingdom’s aspirations, shaping our journey toward the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030, under the leadership of His Majesty the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, marks a new era of progress and development. It draws inspiration from the spirit of founding, perseverance, and dedication that our ancestors instilled centuries ago. Just as Imam Muhammad bin Saud laid the foundations of this great nation, Vision 2030 aims to build a diverse, resilient economy and drive advancements across all sectors, all while preserving and celebrating our rich heritage.

Ladies and gentlemen,

As we commemorate this day, we also look forward to strengthening our partnership with the friendly Republic of Bulgaria, which in 2025 marks 30 years of diplomatic relations with our nation. We are committed to further enhancing and deepening these ties in a way that fulfills the aspirations of both our leaderships and peoples.

Finally, Founding Day is more than a historical milestone—it is a living embodiment of our Saudi national identity, shaped over centuries. The Kingdom has built a strong, united society, capable of overcoming challenges and forging ahead toward a prosperous future. Today, we honor the founders and all those who sacrificed for the unity and progress of our beloved homeland.

Thank you!

After the congratulatory words of H. E. Mr. Rami bin Saud Al-Otaibi, the guests enjoyed live classical music performances, as well as wonderful dishes typical of the traditional cuisine of the Kingdom.

The photos are provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Bulgaria.

Above: S. E. Mr. Rami bin Saud Al-Otaibi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Bulgaria,