site.btaBulgarian Polar Researchers Have Become Benchmark for Scientific Excellence, Vice President Iotova Says

Bulgarian polar researchers have become a benchmark for exceptional scientific professionalism and for research that will benefit all of humanity, said Vice President Iliana Iotova in Varna on Friday. She noted that her visit to Varna meant to express the Presidential Institution’s deep respect for the achievements of Bulgarian scientists. "Our researchers do not merely bring us pride and confidence – their contributions are recognized and utilized worldwide," Iotova emphasized.

According to her, the project involving the Bulgarian naval research vessel Sv. Sv. Kiril i Metodii, operated by the Varna Naval Academy, is one of Bulgaria’s most successful undertakings in recent years.

In Varna, Iotova attended a presentation highlighting the achievements of the 33rd Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition. The event was held at the Star Hall of the Naval Academy’s Planetarium. The accomplishments of the expedition were presented by Bulgarian Antarctic Institute Chair Prof. Christo Pimpirev. A presentation on the vessel’s voyage was delivered by Nikolay Danailov, former commanding officer of Sv. Sv. Kiril i Metodii during its two previous expeditions. Guests at the event included Naval Academy Head Rear Admiral Kalin Kalinov, Prof. Boyan Mednikarov, and Sofia University Rector Prof. Georgi Valchev.

The research vessel is expected to dock in Varna later on Friday.

The Bulgarian naval research vessel Sv. Sv. Kiril i Metodii departed from Varna on its third Antarctic expedition on November 7, 2024, and arrived at Livingston Island on December 28. The St Kliment Ohridski Bulgarian Antarctic Base on Livingston Island opened for the new polar season on November 23, 2024.

BTA has a national press club on the vessel and at the Bulgarian Antarctic base. This is the third year in a row that BTA has sent a correspondent to Antarctica. This year's correspondent is Milena Ostrovska, who arrived at the base on January 17. Her reports are available for free in English at the Bulgaria-Antarctica Log on BTA's website and can be used for free by all media with attribution to BTA.