Boyan Tomov received the cross “Order pro Merito Melitensi”

This year, too, the Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta in Bulgaria continues its charitable and diplomatic initiatives. On June 24 – the Feast of St. John the Baptist – the Order celebrates its national and patronal feast day and, as is traditional, organizes receptions and ceremonies and presents awards around the world.

H.E. Ursula Hofter Dzukoli, Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Bulgaria, hosted a reception yesterday at the Vrana Royal Palace. She welcomed H.M. Tsar Simeon II, His Royal Highness Prince Boris, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivanka Tasheva, diplomats and ambassadors from dozens of countries, bishops and clergy from the Orthodox and Catholic Churches in Bulgaria, as well as representatives of the Muslim community, the business sector, academia, the media, and public life. President Iliana Yotova and Prime Minister Rumen Radev sent congratulatory messages.

In a year marked by new geopolitical tensions, ongoing humanitarian crises, and profound social changes, the Order of Malta continues its millennia-old mission to assist the poor, the sick, and those in need,” emphasized H.E. Ursula Hofter Dzukoli in her address.

She noted that in Bulgaria, the Order has continued to implement social projects in support of elderly people living in poverty, as well as disadvantaged children placed in specialized institutions.

I would like to sincerely thank all our donors and volunteers for the efforts and dedication they put into fulfilling our mission,” said the ambassador.

Traditionally, the Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta nominates individuals who have distinguished themselves through their community service and who share the Order’s values, ideals, and mission. Nominations are submitted by the Embassy, and the Government of the Order conducts the necessary review and approves them.

This year as well, H.E. Ursula Hofter Dzukoli presented awards to distinguished individuals and volunteers for their exceptional contributions.

I have the honor of recognizing some of our dear friends for their outstanding and long-standing contributions in support of our social projects. “On behalf of the Grand Master, I will present them with the Pro Merito Melitensi,” she said.

Bojan Tomov, CEO of “Brand Media Bulgaria,” publisher of Economic.bg, was awarded the Cross Order pro Merito Melitensi.

During the ceremony, his contribution to providing children from Family-Type Placement Centers (FTPCs) with the opportunity to attend summer camps and see the sea for the first time was highlighted. This is a cause that Boyan Tomov has consistently supported in recent years.

It is important for everyone to have a cause and to show compassion for people in need. I strive to set a good example for my son, my friends and colleagues, as well as for the society in which we live. Today we are faced with many negative trends, and that is precisely why we must work together to create a better and more supportive environment. “Thank you for this gesture on the part of the Order of Malta and for their dedicated work in support of those in need,” said Boyan Tomov.

Stefania Codoni Martinelli, Ventsislav Velkov, and Lyudmil Georgiev also received awards.

The Sovereign Order of Malta and Bulgaria officially established diplomatic relations on November 11, 1994. Since the opening of the Embassy in 2005, the Order has enjoyed high standing and public respect in the country. Over the years, the diplomatic mission has carried out numerous charitable initiatives and social projects throughout Bulgaria. Hundreds of activities have been carried out in dozens of communities to support people in need.

Photos in the article: Romeo Cholakov

Translated with DeepL.