Ivan Stanchov, a prominent Bulgarian diplomat and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria (1994-1995), passed away in Britain at the age of 92.

Following the example of his grandfather, Dimitar Stanchov, who was Ambassador to Great Britain (1908, 1922 -1924), Minister of Foreign Affairs (1906) and Prime Minister of Bulgaria (1907), he also left a bright mark in the history of this country as a devoted patriot and public figure. In 1943 his family emigrated because of political reasons, but after the democratic changes Stanchov returned to Bulgaria in 1990. He was soon appointed ambassador to Great Britain before becoming the first Bulgarian ambassador to Ireland, Minister of Foreign Affairs and honorary chairman of the National Advisory Council of the Diplomatic Institute. He won many prestigious international awards, both for his work as a diplomat and for countless charitable initiatives. He is the only contemporary to whom a school was named during his lifetime. This is the Bulgarian school "Ivan Stanchov" in London.

"Ivan Stanchov served to Bulgaria with dedication, diligently contributing to the building and promotion of its new democratic image," Bulgarian Head of State Rumen Radev wrote in a letter of condolence to the family, colleagues and relatives of the Bulgarian diplomat. "We have lost a worthy Bulgarian who carried the spirit of the Bulgarian Revival deep in his heart."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria also expressed its most sincere condolences to the family and relatives of Ivan Stanchov.

"We shall remember him for his patriotism and concern for the fate of Bulgaria, for his professionalism and warmheartedness," the condolence letter of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reads. “He was ardently supporting the development of this country since the dawn of democracy. He also continued to engage in charitable activities through his Karin Dom Foundation, helping children with special needs and their families. His death is a great loss to us!"

"An exceptional person, a patriot and a great gentleman," the head of the Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute, Tanya Mihailova wrote. “A great human being and friend who leaves a bright mark ... Rest in Peace, My Friend!”

A deep bow to his memory!