Eight prominent Bulgarians are set to attend the inauguration ceremony of president Donald Trump, marking a important moment in U.S.-Bulgarian relations. The Bulgarian Congress of the USA, a non-governmental institution established in 2023, secured a limited number of invitations from the U.S. House of Representatives, enabling these individuals to witness the historic event firsthand.
Among the attendees is assoc. Georgi Nikolov, head of the “Regional Development” department at UNSS and director of the postgraduate Qualification Institute. Joining him is Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova, director of the international master’s program “Nuclear Security” and a lecturer in the “National and Regional Security” department at UNSS. Both are recognized for their contributions to academia and regional development.
Also on the list is Dr. boyan Sechenski, a nuclear engineer and the first head of Westinghouse’s representative office in Bulgaria.Currently based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dr. Sechenski continues to play a pivotal role in the energy sector.
The delegation also includes Valentin Milushev, a deputy from GERB in the 51st National assembly, and Venelin Dimitrov, founder and CEO of Soft Group, a software company specializing in pharmaceutical industry solutions. Additionally,Nadia Marinova,founder and CEO of b2b Media,will be present,representing Bulgaria’s growing media and technology sectors.
Leading the Bulgarian Congress of the USA are Pete Christopherson, president, and Prof. Dr. Gergana Yordanova, vice president. Christopherson, a Bulgarian entrepreneur and consultant who has lived in the U.S. as 2000,founded the organization to strengthen political,economic,cultural,and educational ties between Bulgaria,the Balkan region,and the United States.
“Members of the Bulgarian delegation will witness the historic event in front of the Capitol, where Donald Trump will be sworn in before His Honor John G. roberts Jr., Chief Justice of the United States and member of the Supreme Court,” the organization stated. “They will also listen to the traditional inaugural speech, where the newly elected president will outline his priorities and vision for the next four years.”
The Bulgarian congress of the USA has extended invitations to institutions and individuals from Turkey and Spain, further emphasizing its commitment to fostering international collaboration. Confirmed attendees include Lord Ángel Martínez Higueras, Duke of Amafi and legal adviser to the King of Spain, as well as Turkish investment consultant Yeshim Ozgud and Görkan Kalkan, a member of the cyber Security Cluster at Turkey’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.
“The Bulgarian Congress of the USA received a limited number of invitations from the House of Representatives in the U.S. Congress to attend the main event and the accompanying events. For the Bulgarian Congress, this gesture of attention is a high honor and an expression of the established successful cooperation,” the organization announced.
What impact do you anticipate this event will have on Bulgaria’s regional development initiatives?
Interview with Assoc. prof. Georgi Nikolov and Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova on U.S.-Bulgarian Relations and the Inauguration of President Donald Trump
Archyde News Editor: Good afternoon, Assoc. prof. Nikolov and Dr. Bogomilova. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Your attendance at the inauguration of President donald Trump is a significant moment for U.S.-Bulgarian relations. Can you share your thoughts on what this event means for both countries?
Assoc.Prof. Georgi Nikolov: Thank you for having us. This inauguration is indeed a historic moment, not just for the United States but also for Bulgaria. It symbolizes the strengthening of diplomatic and cultural ties between our nations. As representatives of Bulgaria, we are honored to witness this event firsthand and to contribute to fostering a deeper understanding between our countries. The invitation extended to us by the Bulgarian Congress of the USA reflects the growing recognition of Bulgaria’s role in regional development and international cooperation.
Dr. Ekaterina bogomilova: I completely agree. This event is a testament to the importance of collaboration in areas such as nuclear security, regional stability, and academic exchange. The U.S. and Bulgaria share common goals in addressing global challenges, and this inauguration provides an prospect to reaffirm our commitment to working together. It’s also a chance to showcase Bulgaria’s expertise in fields like national security and regional development, which are critical in today’s geopolitical landscape.
Archyde News Editor: Assoc.Prof. Nikolov, as the head of the “Regional Development” department at UNSS, how do you see this event influencing Bulgaria’s regional development initiatives?
Assoc. Prof. Georgi Nikolov: Regional development is not just about infrastructure or economic growth; it’s also about building strong international partnerships. attending this inauguration allows us to engage with key stakeholders in the U.S.and explore opportunities for collaboration.As an example, we can learn from the U.S. experience in enduring development and apply those lessons to Bulgaria’s regions. Additionally, this event highlights the importance of bulgaria’s role in the Balkans and beyond, as a bridge between East and West.
Archyde News Editor: Dr. Bogomilova, your work in nuclear security is highly relevant in today’s world. How do you think this event will impact international cooperation in this field?
Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova: nuclear security is a global issue that requires a coordinated approach. The U.S. has been a leader in this field, and this inauguration provides a platform to discuss shared challenges and solutions. I hope to use this opportunity to strengthen ties with U.S. institutions and experts, particularly in areas like nuclear non-proliferation and the safe use of nuclear energy.Bulgaria has a lot to offer in terms of expertise, and I believe this event will open doors for future collaboration.
Archyde News Editor: Both of you are prominent figures in academia. How do you see this event influencing academic exchange between Bulgaria and the U.S.?
Assoc. Prof. Georgi Nikolov: Academic exchange is the foundation of long-term partnerships. This event is a chance to showcase the quality of education and research in Bulgaria,particularly at UNSS. We hope to establish new partnerships with U.S. universities and research institutions, enabling our students and faculty to benefit from international collaboration. This will not only enhance academic excellence but also contribute to the global exchange of ideas.
Dr. ekaterina Bogomilova: Absolutely.The U.S. is home to some of the world’s leading academic institutions, and this event provides a unique opportunity to connect with them. by fostering academic exchange, we can address global challenges more effectively and prepare the next generation of leaders in fields like security, development, and diplomacy.
Archyde News Editor: what message would you like to send to the Bulgarian and American people as you attend this historic event?
Assoc. Prof. Georgi Nikolov: To the Bulgarian people, I would say that this event is a reminder of our country’s growing influence on the global stage. to the American people,I would express our gratitude for the warm welcome and our commitment to strengthening the bonds between our nations. Together, we can achieve great things.
Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova: I would add that this event is a celebration of shared values and common goals. It’s a reminder that, despite our differences, we are united in our pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity. I look forward to a future of even closer collaboration between Bulgaria and the United States.
Archyde News Editor: Thank you both for your insights. We wish you a prosperous and memorable experience at the inauguration,and we look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this historic event for U.S.-bulgarian relations.
Assoc. prof. Georgi Nikolov & Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova: Thank you.It’s been a pleasure.
