Bulgarians living in Egypt and Sudan gathered in Cairo to celebrate May 24, a national day dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius, as well as Bulgarian education, culture, and Slavic literature. The event brought together families, students, and members of the Bulgarian community in a cultural program highlighting national heritage.
The celebration was held in Cairo and featured performances by students from the Bulgarian Sunday School. The school marked the occasion with poetry recitations and musical performances, including the traditional hymn “Varvi, Narode Vazrodeni,” which is widely associated with Bulgarian cultural identity.
Deyan Katrachev spoke during the event and highlighted the historical importance of Saints Cyril and Methodius and their role in developing the Cyrillic alphabet. He also emphasized the role of medieval Bulgaria in preserving their legacy.
The ambassador noted that this year’s celebration also coincided with the patron holiday of the St Cyril and Methodius Bulgarian Sunday School in Cairo. He congratulated teachers, students, parents, and school leaders on completing the school’s first academic year since its reopening.
The Sunday school plays an important role in maintaining Bulgarian language and culture among children living abroad. Students participated actively in the program, showcasing their language skills and cultural knowledge through stage performances.
School principal Maria Vaseva and teacher Anelia Avramova received honorary certificates from the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They were recognized for their efforts to preserve Bulgarian identity and education among expatriate children.
The event also honored several individuals for their contributions to cultural and educational cooperation. Dr Karim Abdulghani, a lecturer at Mansoura University, received a foreign ministry award for supporting academic and educational ties between Bulgaria and Egypt.
In addition, concertmaster Tsvetelina Krasteva was awarded the Golden Laurel Branch for her efforts in promoting Bulgarian culture abroad and strengthening cultural relations between Bulgaria and Egypt.
Organizers said the celebration reflected the importance of maintaining cultural traditions among diaspora communities. They also highlighted the role of education in passing national identity to younger generations living outside Bulgaria.
The Bulgarian Embassy in Cairo supported the event and noted that 2026 will mark 100 years of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Egypt. Officials said this milestone is expected to further strengthen cultural and educational cooperation between the two countries.
The celebration ended with performances and gatherings that brought together participants of different ages, reinforcing a shared sense of heritage and cultural connection among Bulgarians in the region.
