On September 22, 2023 the Consulate General hosted a reception on the occasion of the Independence Day of Bulgaria. Guest of honor was the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria Ms. Mariya Gabriel. She congratulated the Bulgarian community in the New York area with the Independence Day and spoke with dozens of Bulgarians and their families.

In their remarks the Deputy Prime Minister and the Consul General emphasized the successes of the Bulgarian diplomacy, which made possible the declaration of the independence of Bulgaria 115 years ago and the establishment of diplomatic relations with the United States 120 years ago. The Deputy Prime Minister shared her vision for the modern development of Bulgaria and for the strengthening of the strategic partnership with the US.

Along with the Deputy Prime Minister, the members of the delegation led by her for the opening of the 78^th session of the UN General Assembly also took part in the reception, incl. the Deputy Minister of Health Mr. Mihail Okoliyski, the Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations in New York  Ms. Lachezara Stoeva, as well as representatives of the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Health and the diplomatic service.

The national anthem was performed during the event by the talented pianist and composer from the Bulgarian community Ms. Lora Al-Alahmad.