100th Anniversary of U.S.-Bulgarian Diplomatic Relations

Secretary Powell visited Sofia on May 15 to inaugurate several months of events to mark 100 years of U.S.-Bulgarian relations, where he addressed a large crowd of Bulgarian citizens, saying, "relations between Bulgaria and the United States are the best they have ever been in all of the past one hundred years." The quality of our relationship was reflected earlier in the year when the U.S. Senate voted unanimously to ratify Bulgaria's accession to NATO.

Bulgaria is a pivotal country in Southeastern Europe, and has been in important force for tolerance and moderation in a region that has seen too much bloodshed in recent years. Bulgaria has promoted stability in the Balkans through its support to the Stabilization Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (SFOR) and to the Kosovo Force (KFOR) in Kosovo. In the international struggle against terrorism and extremism, Bulgaria has demonstrated its commitment through its significant support to coalition forces during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. A 500-man Bulgarian infantry battalion is in Iraq now as part of coalition efforts to stabilize and rebuild Iraq.

The U.S. and Bulgaria have emerged from the challenges of the twentieth century as partners in expanding freedom and prosperity in the world. Following the democratic changes of 1989, Bulgaria has proven to be a valuable friend of the U.S., committed to the principles of democracy, human rights, peace and free markets.

The United States of America congratulates the people of Bulgaria on this occasion and to look forward to many more years of increased cooperation and partnership. As President Bush stated in May, "Americans have always considered the Bulgarian people to be our friends, and we will be proud to call you allies."