site.btaPresident Confers Order of Madara Horseman on Egyptian Ambassador in Sofia

President Rumen Radev Wednesday conferred the Order of the Madara Horseman, First Class, on Egypt's Ambassador to Bulgaria Khalid Ibrahim Emara for his contribution to the development of bilateral relations.

In his speech, the President said that Egypt has been and will remain a key partner to Bulgaria in that region. He noted that Egypt is the first Arab country with which Bulgaria has established diplomatic relations. It is also the country of the Middle East and Africa with which Bulgaria has the largest trade volume.

Radev underlined Ambassador Emara's active contribution to the further development of the traditionally friendly bilateral relations in areas of shared interest, including the economy, energy, defence, agriculture, science, culture and tourism.

Ambassador Emara said the distinction is a symbol of the very long-standing excellent relations between Bulgaria and Egypt. These relations find various expressions and have always been based on mutual respect, friendship and partnership, which will continue in the future, he said. He underlined Radev's leadership and wisdom in conducting the affairs of state.

The diplomat said his family was leaving "heartbroken" because they had good friends and very warm feelings for Bulgaria. During his term he has been able to visit many regions of the country and to enjoy its beauty, people and traditions. He said that he had discovered the very close historical ties between Bulgaria and Egypt and that he would continue to return with his family.