NEWS

President Plevneliev attended the inauguration ceremony of Pope Francis in the Vatican

Health and strength “to lead the world with modesty, yet with vision and strength,” President Rosen Plevneliev wished His Holiness Pope Francis on his inauguration. The Bulgarian head of state and leaders from around the world attended the solemn mass on St. Peter square in the Vatican City for the inauguration of the new pope.

In his talks with His Holiness, President Rosen Plevneliev recalled the century-old relations between the Vatican and Bulgaria.  The President emphasized the role of the Catholic community in Bulgaria for the formation of the Bulgarian statehood since the Middle Ages to its most recent history. The President also recalled that in 2013 we will commemorate 1150 years since the Great Moravian enlightenment mission of Cyril and Methodius was conducted.

Being asked to estimate the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and the Vatican, Rosen Plevneliev said they were very good, respectful and indicating trust. The President expressed discontent with the fact that for more than a year and a half the Bulgarian state has failed to nominate “an acceptable ambassador who is capable of promoting the Bulgarian interests.” “I have given clear instructions and I hope the issue will soon be solved,” the head of state emphasized.

The negotiations on signing an agreement between the Education Ministries of Bulgaria and Brazil are due to be completed. This became clear after President Rosen Plevneliev held talks with Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff. The agreement will provide for a bilateral exchange of students, the head of state said. He also had short talks with other European and world leaders.