The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary for Bulgaria to Ghana, Yanko V. Yordanov, has extended a hand of friendship to Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, seeking to collaborate with the King on various projects and initiatives.

The envoy, who is based in Abuja, Nigeria, and is in charge of eight African countries, says he has monitored and is abreast of the interventions and initiatives of the King, some of which he does through his non-governmental organization, the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation.

During a courtesy call to pay homage on June 23, 2024, when Asanteman was marking the fifth Akwasidae festival, Mr Yanko was led by the Municipal Chief Executive of Asokore Mampong, Hon Kennedy Kwasi Kankam.

Introducing him, the MCE said the official had been longing to meet the Asantehene.

“Bulgarian ambassador to Ghana, he looks after eight countries. He is in Abuja. I went to Abuja on an official visit once and met him. When he noted I was an Asante, he showed interest in meeting Otumfuo for collaboration.”

With the opening of Prempeh I International Airport, Mr Yanko anticipates the operation of direct flights between Ghana and Bulgaria for the first time in history.

“There aren’t direct flights between Ghana and Bulgaria. Recently we opened the Prempeh I Airport and I deemed it right to bring him here to meet the King as he yearns to meet and pay homage to him,” Hon Kankam said.

The envoy used the occasion to congratulate Otumfuo on his Silver Jubilee and the “amazing work you are doing”.

He also sought collaboration to advance the initiatives of His Majesty.

“We have heard a lot about all your initiatives, and I hope that you will be able to cooperate bilaterally so that these initiatives can be enhanced through the support of my country.”