Knyazhestvo Balgariya - Княжество България
Principality of Bulgaria
Shumi Maritsa
On Bulgaria and its relations with the Porte
The Bulgarian nation has a long, vivid and praise-worthy history. And if Bulgaria was undoubtedly beaten by the heirs of Osman, a national revival has been awakening the forces of our motherland for the last century. The hopes of the treaty of San Stefano were broken by European diplomacy at Berlin, but the Bulgarian question remains, and must be dealt with. Bulgaria recognizes its current relation with the Porte, yet it cannot forget about its brethren that long for unification with the Motherland. Our nation is a country that has suffered - nay, endured! - throughout and the ages and it is the stubbornness that runs in our blood that enabled us to survive and shine as a nation until now. It is this same stubbornness that makes it difficult for our Bulgarian brothers to live under Ottoman domination, and as their longing for Bulgaria makes them unruly subjects. The relation between Bulgaria and the Empire can only be strengthened if these Bulgarians are allowed to live under the same roof, under the same Prince.
The Sublime State had come to terms with Bulgarian unification, but formal recognition has yet to be granted to us. We request a formal recognition, to ensure that Eastern Rumelia gets legally erased, and however bold this may seem, we wish to enter talks regarding the other Bulgarian territories under direct Ottoman rule. I hope to send a delegation to Constantinople in order to discuss how we can best enhance our relations. We will remain true to the Berlin Treaty whatever these talks lead to, but we wish to advance our cause and that of all Bulgarians at the court of the Sultan.
Съединението прави силата - Unity makes might
Todor Ivanchov, Prime Minister
For the Prince of Bulgaria, the Constitution and the Blessed Bulgar Nation