site.btaPresident Radev Decorates Israeli Historian, Novelist and Politician Michael Bar-Zohar with Balkan Range Order, First Class

Sofia, July 9 (BTA) - Bulgarian President Rumen Radev Monday presented the Balkan Range Order, First Class, to prominent Israeli historian, novelist and politician Michael Bar-Zohar, for his exceptional contribution in the development of the relations between Bulgaria and Israel.

"You are a true ambassador of the Bulgarian people. The State of Bulgaria has many ambassadors abroad but the Bulgarian people has only a few ambassadors who are persons like you," Radev said.

The President also said that the high distinction is an expression of Bulgaria's recognition of the efforts and work of Prof. Bar-Zohar in telling the world the truth about the saving of the Bulgarian Jews from being deported to Nazi camps during World War Two.

Prof. Bar-Zohar accepted the highest Bulgarian distinction with excitement and gratitude, saying that the award is not in his name but in the name of the Bulgarian people. The guest said that Israel has a special attitude to Bulgaria. For Israel Bulgaria is a country who must be an example to the whole world, Prof. Bar-Zohar said.

Attending the award-giving ceremony were Bulgarian President (1997-2002) Peter Stoyanov, BTA Director General Maxim Minchev, and Israeli Ambassador to Sofia Irit Lillian.