News - Finland, Helsinki, Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria

The Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Finland Zornitsa Apostolova and the diplomatic staff at the Embassy in Helsinki took part in the traditional commemorative ceremony marking the anniversary of the Battle of Gorni Dubnik. The battle, which took place on October 24, 1877, was a turning point in the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation (1877-1878), in which the historic Finnish Guards’ Rifle Battalion played a decisive role. This memorable event holds a special place in Bulgarian-Finnish relations.

The ceremony took place at the Finnish Guard Memorial located in the Old Guard Cemetery in the Finnish capital, where Ambassador Apostolova laid a wreath as a token of gratitude and tribute to the memory of the Finnish soldiers who fought and gave their lives for the freedom of Bulgaria. Wreaths and flowers were also laid in a solemn atmosphere by the Commander of the Guard Jaeger Regiment Colonel Ari Lehmuslehti, the Commander of the Guard Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Antti Montonen and other senior Finnish officers, as well as by representatives of the Finland-Bulgaria Friendship Society. The event was organized by the Finnish Guard Jaeger Regiment, which includes the Finnish Guard Battalion—the direct successor to the Finnish Guards’ Rifle Battalion established in 1812.

Keeping with the established tradition, which honors the close connection between the battalion's history and the history of our country, the Bulgarian Ambassador in Helsinki also attends as a guest of honour the annual ceremonies marking the anniversary of the Guard Battalion's establishment. The 214th anniversary of the Guard Battalion was solemnly celebrated on September 18, 2026, at the military base on the island of Santahamina in Helsinki. The ceremony was led by the Guard Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Antti Montonen, and included a parade review and a ceremonial march. The upcoming year 2027 will mark the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gorni Dubnik and the participation of the Finnish Battalion in the Liberation War — events that have forged a deep bond of friendship and respect between the Bulgarian and Finnish peoples.