Bulgarian Ambassador Valeri Ivanov Yotov Addresses IUS PSIR Students
The IUS Balkan Studies Center (BSC), in collaboration with the Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) study program, continues its Shuttle Diplomacy Talks series.
The first distinguished guest of this academic year was His Excellency Valeri Ivanov Yotov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ambassador Yotov was warmly welcomed at the IUS Rectorate by Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakcı, Rector of IUS, and Dr. Adnan Shaban Mestan, Director of the Balkan Studies Center.
Following the reception, Ambassador Yotov delivered a lecture titled “Positive Progress in Regional Diplomacy, Including Bulgaria’s Recognition of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Independence in 1992” to students of the PSIR program. In his address, the Ambassador examined geopolitical developments in the Balkans after World War II, tracing the region’s evolution from the formation of Yugoslavia to its dissolution. He analyzed the key historical, political, and diplomatic dynamics that shaped this transformation and reflected on their relevance for contemporary regional relations.
Ambassador Yotov emphasized that Bulgaria was the first country to recognize Bosnia and Herzegovina’s independence in 1992, a courageous and strategic diplomatic decision that played a crucial role in fostering regional peace, cooperation, and economic progress. He also reiterated Bulgaria’s continuous support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU and NATO integration efforts.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which PSIR students actively engaged with the Ambassador on various aspects of regional diplomacy. Ambassador Yotov provided thoughtful and insightful responses, enriching the discussion with his diplomatic experience and perspective.
The Balkan Studies Center and PSIR study program extend their sincere appreciation to Ambassador Yotov for his valuable contribution to academic dialogue, and to all participants whose engagement made the event a success.
