[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING VALENTIN NIKOLOV

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE WILSON

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 24, 2026

  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as Co-Chair and founder of 
the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus, I rise to recognize Valentin Nikolov 
as he leaves Washington to begin his next diplomatic assignment at the 
Permanent Representation of Bulgaria in Strasbourg, France.
  For more than five years, Valentin has vigorously served as Deputy 
Chief of Mission and Minister Plenipotentiary at the Embassy of the 
Republic of Bulgaria. Throughout his time in Washington, he has 
demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening the partnership 
between the United States and the Republic of Bulgaria, fostering 
deeper connections and lasting ties between our nations.
  With nearly 40 years of experience in diplomacy and international 
affairs, Valentin has held senior positions within Bulgaria's Ministry 
of Foreign Affairs and representing the country within the European 
Union, United Nations, and the Organization for Security and 
Cooperation in Europe in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo.
  Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, Valentin has been 
a loyal friend and valued colleague. I am grateful for his years of 
dedicated service in Washington and wish him continued success 
promoting the dynamic people of Bulgaria.

                          ____________________