Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel has been elected Patron of the Class of 2024 of the Advanced European Studies Programme of the prestigious French National Institute of Civil Service, the Foreign Ministry announced. The Deputy Prime Minister is in Paris on a working visit.

"It is a recognition, but also a responsibility, to promote causes such as Europe of Values, Europe of the Future and Europe - Home of Talents. My election as patron gives me the energy to continue working for a strong and inclusive Europe," said Gabriel, who delivered a lecture at the Institute. She outlined the challenges and ambitions of Bulgaria's foreign policy in the dynamically changing European and global context. The Deputy Prime Minister outlined Bulgaria's efforts to establish itself as a key factor for security and stability in South Eastern Europe, the country's policy of support for the Western Balkans and the need to put the security of the Black Sea region at the top of the EU and NATO agenda. 

Over the years, the patrons have been key figures in European politics, including Simon Weil, Jacques Delors, Valery Giscard d'Estaing, Jean-Claude Juncker, Herman Van Rompuy, Michel Barnier and others.