By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Emilia Kircheva from Bulgaria
Photos = Office of Bulgarian president
Sofia l May 11, 2018

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev awarded Ambassador Shin Boo-nam, Seoul's representative in Sofia, with the Stara Planina Order in the First Degree in an official ceremony on May 11 in the Bulgarian capital. This highest of state honors was conferred on Shin for his outstanding contribution to the development of the relationship between Bulgaria and Korea. The event marks the successful completion of his mandate as ambassador in Bulgaria.

“Within his two year mandate, Ambassador Shin managed to develop extremely active and fruitful activities for cooperation between Bulgaria and Korea in all areas of mutual interest,” said President Radev.

The head of state stressed that Shin went beyond the call of duty by giving an impulse to the entire diplomatic corps with regard to Northeast Asia. The president recalled a working meeting with diplomatic representatives from East Asian countries in Bulgaria, which was organized by Shin in March this year. A symbolic meeting between the ambassadors of Korea and North Korea, at the South Korean Embassy in Sofia, happened during this work meeting.

“Ambassador Shin made a special effort to develop our economic relations,” pointed out President Radev, and gave as an example the visits from business delegations, the organization of forums and the opening of the Bulgarian-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The head of state highlighted the importance of programs that deepen investment and cooperation in technologies, machines, electronics and IT. He also thanked Shin for popularizing Korean heritage and traditions, and noted his efforts in the fields of education and sport.

Shin Boo-nam said that it is a great honor to receive the highest state award, especially given the fact that he is not only leaving Bulgaria, but also withdrawing from the Korean diplomatic corps. "I'm sad today that I'm leaving, but I believe that this is not the end of our relationship. I will remain honorary chairman of the Bulgarian-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Korea-Bulgaria Friendship Association," said Shin. He thanked President Rumen Radev for his strong commitment to supporting Bulgaria's relations with all Asian countries, and wished health and prosperity for all Bulgarian citizens.

wisdom117@korea.kr

* This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.