President at Iftar Dinner: In Today's Divided Times, It Is Increasingly Important to Support Each Other

Dimitrina Solakova, Tsvetisiana Kostova

President Rumen Radev speaking at tehe traditional Iftar dinner, Sofia, March 1, 2025 (BTA Photo/Milena Stoykova)

Sofia,

01.03.2025 19:36

(BTA)

Hosting the traditional Iftar dinner in Sofia on Saturday, President Rumen Radev said: "In the divided times we live in today, it is increasingly important to stick together and support each other." The dinner was held on the occasion of the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims.

Vice President Iliana Iotova also attended the event. Invited were representatives of the Muslim and other traditional religious communities in the country, as well as the diplomatic corps, figures in the fields of culture, education, and science.

In his speech, Radev stressed the importance of traditions as a carrier of kindness but also of unity. "Just as our ancestors used to gather at the table, we are sharing a common dinner tonight, which is a symbol of our timeless values," the head of State said.He expressed his gratitude for hosting the Iftar dinner as part of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims.

This month teaches believers patience and understanding, Radev said, adding that Iftar is a tradition with deep meaning because it unites not only people of different generations but also of different faiths.

He also said humility and respect are virtues that stand the test of time and can help people live in a more peaceful world. "When the human in us cracks under the pressure of weapons, meetings and examples like these, based on understanding, gain special value," Radev stressed. According to him, it is these traditions that build strong ties between people, "with the help of which we can withstand the challenges of the modern world."

People all over the world pray for the same things, no matter in which temple and in which language they address their prayers, the head of State went on to say. "That is why I believe that our common prayer will be heard," he added.

The Grand Mufti of the Muslim denomination in Bulgaria, Dr. Mustafa Hadzhi, said: "For centuries we have lived together with the people of Bulgaria, but in our modern times we have an even greater need to support and respect each other." He also said Iftar is an opportunity for people, regardless of their differences - ethnic or religious - to be together and find a balance between traditions and personal values.

"It is naive to believe that we can stop the changes in our lives, it is enough to explain to people that we are all responsible for the future of humanity," Hadzhi added. He explained that it is religious beliefs that are the source of human values without which people cannot exist.

/DS/