Bulgarian National Day was celebrated with a reception at the emblematic building of the Belén Convention in Old Havana, a symbol of solidarity and care for the elderly and children. The event was attended by over 300 guests, including the Minister of National Economy of Cuba Betsy Diaz Velázquez, senior officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, the leadership of the Historian’s Office of the City of Havana, President of the Bulgarian National Union of Labor and Production Cooperatives, EU Ambassador, the ambassadors of the seventeen EU member states with embassies in Havana, other representatives of the diplomatic corps, the Bulgarian community and friends of Bulgaria. Special guests were the elderly living and children studying at the Belén Monastery. Everyone was given Martenitsa with a card explaining the Bulgarian tradition.

Bulgarian ambassador Todor Kanchevski shared about the history and development of Bulgaria, proven itself as a resilient and prosperous nation, which with real achievements strengthens its positions in Europe and the world. He pointed out that in addition to being a tourist destination, our homeland is committed to technology, sustainable development, culture and education, as well as international stability and security. He emphasized the importance of solidarity and mutual commitment. Highlighted the historical friendly relations between Bulgaria and Cuba, which have a promising future based on cooperation and mutual respect.

A special gift that delighted the guests at the reception was the cultural program performed by the Belen choir.

EU Member States' ambassadors welcomed the choice of venue for the event, which was preceded by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque on the wall of the building. Many of them, after the reception, addressed the Cuban authorities with a request to help them implement similar projects with the Belén Monastery, whose activities are in line with European values.