site.btaPresident Radev: Asian Countries Are Natural Partners to Bulgaria

Sofia, May 12 (BTA) - Opening the 2nd Asian Festival in Sofia on Saturday, President Rumen Radev said the Asian countries are natural partners to Bulgaria because Bulgaria is their stepping stone to Europe. The festival, mottoed "The Colours of Tradition," is taking place in the Borissova Garden, the city's main park.

Radev said: "Our friendly relations nowadays are based on a good tradition and considerable potential for cooperation. As Bulgaria presides over the EU Council, we attach great importance to enhancing Europe's dialogue with Asia within the Asia-Europe Meeting and promoting cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations."

The President also noted that most people usually put politics and the economy first, but on a day like this it is essential to stress the great importance of cultural cooperation, particularly people-to-people contacts. He said: "In order for people-to-people contacts to be fruitful, it is crucial to have an idea about the culture, traditions, customs and achievements of the other nations. Today's festival provides a wonderful opportunity for that."

Radev thanked the organizers of the event for their initiative and efforts which allow Sofia residents and visitors to get immersed in the cultures and traditions of Asia. He thanked foreign diplomats for supporting Bulgarian children and foster families through a fund-raising campaign which has been organized by the For Our Children Foundation and is part of the festival.

The President, foreign diplomats and other officials released 30 white doves into the sky as a symbol of peace and friendship.

Indonesian Ambassador to Bulgaria Sri Astari Rasjid greeted the visitors to the festival on behalf of the 14 participating countries: China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Kuwait, Mongolia, Pakistan, Palestine, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and Vietnam. Ambassador Rasjid said this year's Asian Festival in Sofia comes during the Bulgarian Presidency of the EU Council and brings Asia closer to Bulgaria through culture, sport, food and tourism. "Bulgaria is an important link between Europe and Asia," the diplomat said.

The doyen of the diplomatic corps in Bulgaria, Palestinian Ambassador Ahmed Al Madbuh, thanked President Radev, the attending ambassadors and Sofia City Hall for supporting the festival.