Cultural hub: Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and one of the oldest cities in Europe.

In the centuries-old history of Bulgaria there are many dates that we cherish and remember well, engraved in memory with pride and glory.

One has become a symbol of new beginnings for us – the third of March, when we celebrate our National Day, not only marks the restoration of the Bulgarian state on the political map of Europe, but also presents an occasion for reflection on the price of freedom and what it means for our future and national integrity.

Almost fourteen hundred years old Bulgaria has endured and prospered with a blending of ancient and modern principles.

The richness and authenticity of its culture are palpable through the world heritage of its traditional costumes, their bold use of natural colours and opulent embroidery, unique folk music and masterful dances.

During its most recent history, when transition penetrated all spheres of our political, economic, social and cultural life, Bulgaria managed to steadily achieve progress and today is at its rightful place as a democratic country and a zone of stability in the region of South Eastern Europe.

It is proud of its membership in the European Union brought about with resolve to implement necessary reforms.

As we mark once again the National Day of Bulgaria here in Viet Nam, we proudly celebrate 66 years of friendship with its people.

Fields of flowers: Bulgaria is known all over the world as the land of roses. — Photos courtesy of the Embassy of Bulgaria

Nowadays, the Bulgarian Embassy in Ha Noi receives confirmation of the importance of this relationship grounded in trust and good communication.

It comes from many of the thousand Vietnamese people who lived and studied in Bulgaria. Many of them have since occupied leading positions in Viet Nam – including Vice President of the country, President of the National Assembly, deputy ministers, a number of directors of enterprises, large companies, research institutions, university professors and many others.

In the heart of Bulgaria between the small towns of Karlovo and Kazanlak is located the Bulgarian Valley of Roses, where for centuries now Bulgarian people have been maintaining and developing a tradition for roses cultivation and oil distillation – a cause of much pride for Bulgaria.

There are about a hundred species of roses in the world, but only three of them are used for rose oil production.

They thrive only in very specific climate conditions making Bulgaria an exclusive exporter of rose oil with unrivaled quality and purity which is a key ingredient for many renowned cosmetic products.

It is with great joy that we discovered that the smart and energetic young generation of Viet Nam is also familiar with these facts from a textbook poem beginning with "Hoa Hong Bungary, Oi Loai Hoa Dieu Ky (Bulgarian rose, What a Magical Flower)".

And as long as there are experiences and references like that we could rest assured that friendship and mutual appreciation will prevail to form lasting and peaceful bonds between Bulgaria and Viet Nam. — VNS