President Gjorgje Ivanov today in Sofia will attend the funeral of former Bulgarian President Zhelyu Zhelev, who died on Friday.
In 2010, Zhelev was awarded by President Ivanov with Order “8th of September” for outstanding contributions to the recognition of an independent and sovereign Republic of Macedonia.
The letter of condolence from President Ivanov sent to Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev reads that Zhelev was a proven friend of Macedonia, but his personal friend as well.
– Macedonia will never forget his role in the process of international recognition under its constitutional name. We remain grateful for his personal contribution to the establishment, development and strengthening of relations, mutual respect and understanding between our two countries and peoples,” reads the letter.
After the presidency, Zhelev led Balkan Political Club, in which President Ivanov was active member.
