Innauguration of the commemorative plaque and visit of the General Consulate of the Republic of Bulgaria in Odesa delegation to the University by the

On March 4, 2024, in the humanitarian building premises of ONU named after I.I. Mechnikov, with the contribution of the Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Odesa, a memorial plaque was solemnly innaugurated in honor of the outstanding writer, translator, journalist, lawyer and public figure of Bulgaria Aleko Konstantinov.

In his introductory speech, the head of the Bulgarian Telegraph Agency, Kiril Kilchev, congratulated the management and students of ONU present at the event. The life and activities of Aleko Konstantinov were another example of the close ties that exist between Bulgaria and Odessa. And the opening of a plaque in his memory is a sign of further strengthening of the long friendship between our peoples.

The Consul General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Odesa, Svetoslav Ivanov, highlighted in his speech that the Odesa National University named after I. I. Mechnikov has always been a scientific and educational center of partnership between our countries. The opening of the memorial plaque attests to the rich history of our relations and the prospects for their further development. During the tragic days for Odesa, the Consul General expressed deep condolences and assured the full support of the people of Ukraine in the fight against armed aggression.

The ONU president Vyacheslav Truba noted the strong and long-term relations of our university with educational and scientific institutions in Bulgaria. Bulgarian culture, art, traditions and history occupy an important place in the life of Odessa and the university. The president expressed his gratitude to Mr. Consul General for the initiative of opening a memorial plaque to the outstanding son of Bulgaria, who graduated from the law faculty of our university, and confidence that our friendly ties will continue to grow stronger.

Dragomir Mladenov, a historian, revealed the fascinating story of Aleko Konstantinov's life and his years in Odessa, and activities in the Motherland. A true democrat, an educator and a professional lawyer and an active political figure, Aleko Konstantinov left a valuable legacy for future generations, which will be interesting and useful for students of our university. The collection of works donated to ONU will be a source of inspiration in strive for a better future, but at the same time witty humor in the face of hard days, for which Aleko Konstantinov is famous even 127 years after his tragic death.