Celebration of Africa Day in Sofia
26 May 2015 News
The group of African ambassadors accredited to Bulgaria marked the Africa Day on May 25 in Sofia. The event under the motto "Africa: Land of great opportunities" was held under the patronage of the Bulgarian Minister of Foreign Affairs.
This day symbolises the desire of the people of Africa for peace, stability, development and prosperity on the African continent. It is also an occasion to express solidarity and commitment to the aspirations of the African peoples, said in his address Deputy Minister Valentin Poriazov.
The huge potential of the African continent in the medium and long term is yet to be realised, he said, adding that more and more African countries adopt the principles of "good governance" that are key to achieving sustainable development. In recent years, democratic change in Africa has consolidated. Telling examples are a number of countries where peaceful elections were held and where democratic processes fostering social and economic development are underway.
The growing political stability and improving business environment strongly increased the economic interest in Africa of both countries and private investors. The growing opportunities of Africa are realised through projects of individual countries and joint projects and regional initiatives in the fields of trade, infrastructure, social and customs policy and reforestation, among others.
Africa and Europe are strongly interconnected and interdependent. EU's partnership with Africa is crucial in consolidating peace and stability, as well as in tackling global challenges, including organised crime, terrorism, piracy, and illegal immigration. Illegal immigration is a problem that should be solved jointly by implementing agreed actions and measures by both European and African countries.
There is no problem that cannot be solved. Conflicts and contradictions between the parties should be resolved peacefully through negotiation and compliance with international commitments that have already been agreed upon, said Deputy Minister Poriazov. According to him, the successful resolution of regional conflicts and the establishment of lasting peace and stability are essential for achieving sustainable development, progress and prosperity in the region.
Bulgaria has old traditions of friendship and cooperation with the peoples of Africa. Over the years, tens of thousands of African citizens were trained in our schools and now are respected members of the African society. Thousands of Bulgarian specialists were sent to work in Africa and many of them continue to work and share their experience there today, as well. They constitute a bridge between Bulgaria and Africa, said in conclusion the Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.