Sofia: President of Bulgaria Iliana Iotova has awarded the Order of the Madara Horseman, First Class, to Cyprus Ambassador to Bulgaria Haralambos Kafkarides, in recognition of his significant contribution to strengthening and developing bilateral relations. The ceremony took place on Thursday at the Presidency.

According to Cyprus News Agency, President Iotova emphasized the enduring diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Cyprus, which have spanned 66 years. These relations have been built on a foundation of solidarity, mutual trust, and friendship, with a shared ambition to further develop them.

She further stated that Bulgaria would continue to support a resolution to the Cyprus issue within the United Nations framework, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the values shared by the two countries as members of the European Union.

Iotova also expressed her gratitude for the care shown to Bulgarians residing in Cyprus, highlighting its importance during the challenging and divided times currently faced by many.

Ambassador Kafkarides expressed his gratitude to the President and the Bulgarian people for the honour. He emphasized that he views this recognition primarily as a sign of the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Reflecting on his personal connection to Bulgaria, Kafkarides shared that his ties to the country predate his diplomatic mission. He recounted how 60 years ago, his parents, who were students in Sofia, met and fell in love, learned the language, and embraced the culture before returning to Cyprus with cherished memories.

The Ambassador humorously noted that he was conceived before his parents left Bulgaria for Cyprus, playfully describing himself as a 'product of Bulgaria'.