site.btaInternational Conference Marks 50th Anniversary of Arabic Studies at Sofia University

Sofia University Rector Prof. Georgi Valchev on Thursday opened an international scientific conference, marking the 50th anniversary of the Arabic and Semitic Studies at Sofia University. The organizers of the forum are the Department of Arabic and Semitic Studies at Sofia University in cooperation with the Institute for Historical Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. 

At a time of global challenges and dynamic transformations, the work of the Department of Arabic and Semitic Studies is an example of responsibility, high standards and contribution to the expansion of knowledge of the rich cultural and historical heritage of the East, Valchev said.

“I would like to express my sincere satisfaction with the close cooperation of the Department of Arabic and Semitic Studies with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco and the significant support it receives, said Prof. Valchev. At the conference he awarded the Honorary Badge of the Rector of Sofia University on Zakia El Midaoui, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco and doyen of the diplomatic corps in Bulgaria. The award is given to her "for outstanding services to the development of relations between academic institutions in Bulgaria and the Kingdom of Morocco, and as a doyen of the diplomatic corps - for her significant contribution to strengthening the partnership of the Sofia University with diplomatic missions through joint activities in education and science."

Prof. Dr. Daniel Vachkov - Director of the Institute for Historical Studies at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, said that the Department of Arabic and Semitic Studies is the only educational unit that prepares students, PhD students and specialists in the field of Arabic language, culture, history, Islamic religion. He noted that there has been great interest in the major throughout its existence.

The Arabic language is the key to the heart of the Arab world, said Tanya Mihailova, director of the Diplomatic Institute at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She added that the Diplomatic Institute and she herself have many times "tapped into the in-depth expertise of Bulgarian Arabic scholars to build together deeper relationships, teach, overcome cultural barriers and achieve better understanding with Arab countries."