In a resolute statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India's unwavering dedication to upholding the freedom of navigation and combatting piracy and terrorism in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean region. His assurance followed a heartfelt message from Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, expressing profound gratitude for the safe return of seven Bulgarian nationals.
The appreciation from Bulgaria's President stems from the successful rescue mission conducted by the Indian Navy to liberate the hijacked Bulgarian vessel, MV Ruen, which had been commandeered by pirates. PM Modi, reciprocating the gratitude, lauded President Radev and conveyed India's contentment over the safe return of the seven Bulgarian citizens, assuring that they would soon be reunited with their families.
"Appreciate your message President @PresidentOfBg. We are happy that 7 Bulgarian nationals are safe and will be returning home soon. India is committed to protecting freedom of navigation and combating piracy and terrorism in the Indian Ocean region," PM Modi conveyed in a post on social media.
The ordeal unfolded when the "Rouen" ship, carrying a crew comprising eight Bulgarians, nine Myanmarese, and one Angolan citizen, fell prey to piracy in the Arabian Sea back in December of the preceding year.
Expressing gratitude in an official statement, the Bulgarian President commended PM Modi for the courageous intervention of the Navy in rescuing the hijacked vessel and its crew, including the seven Bulgarian citizens.
Meanwhile, Bulgaria's Foreign Minister, Mariya Gabriel, took to social media to express appreciation towards the Indian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Sanjay Rana, for coordinating the Indian Navy's operation and ensuring the safe return of Bulgarian nationals.
In a recent Facebook update, Minister Gabriel announced, "Today, March 16, with the help of the Indian Navy, the crew of the ship "Rouen," hijacked on December 14, 2023, including seven Bulgarian citizens, was released."
She further elaborated, "Thanks to the efforts of the Indian military, the entire crew of the ship was freed. All sailors are in good health, and efforts are currently underway for their prompt return to Bulgaria."
Reflecting on the incident, Minister Gabriel underscored that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with relevant institutions and international partners, had been actively engaged in securing the release of the Bulgarian crew.
On March 16, during a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussions were held with the Indian Ambassador in Sofia, Ambassador Sanjay Rana, and further appeals were made to the Indian authorities for assistance and necessary actions to safeguard the crew's well-being.
Expressing profound gratitude, Minister Gabriel concluded, "I am extremely grateful for the assistance rendered by the Indian side in facilitating the release of the Bulgarian sailors."
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