Bulgarian President Radev hosts iftar on first day of Ramadan

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev hosted an iftar program in the capital, Sofia, on the first day of Ramadan, bringing together prominent figures from different religious and social backgrounds.

The event, held under Radev’s patronage, was attended by Vice President Iliana Yotova, Minister of Culture Marian Bachev, Bulgaria’s Grand Mufti Mustafa Haci, religious leaders from the country’s major faiths, ambassadors based in Sofia, academics, and members of the media.

In his address, President Radev emphasized the significance of iftar as a tradition that unites people across different faiths and generations. "Ramadan teaches believers patience, compassion, generosity, and tolerance," he stated.

Highlighting Bulgaria’s historical heritage of coexistence, Radev said, “Our ancestors have left us an invaluable legacy. They taught us the importance of knowing one another, coming together, and sharing meaningful conversations. Mutual understanding and respect are two timeless values that enable us to live peacefully, even in difficult times.”

Grand Mufti Mustafa Haci expressed appreciation for President Radev’s continued tradition of hosting iftars, noting that it fosters unity and strengthens interfaith dialogue.

"No matter our ethnicity or religion, we gather here as friends, sharing the same bread and celebrating our togetherness," Haci remarked, underlining Bulgaria’s centuries-old tradition of peaceful coexistence.

"Dignity, faith, and human values are at the core of our existence. Without them, we would cease to be who we are," he added.

President Radev’s iftar reception once again highlighted Bulgaria’s commitment to interfaith harmony and the spirit of Ramadan.