US Envoy to Take Part in Bulgarian Gay Parade

James Warlick, outgoing US Ambassador to Bulgaria. Photo by Sofia Photo Agency

US Ambassador to Bulgaria James Warlick is to take part in this year's Sofia Pride LGBT parade scheduled for June 30 in the country's capital.

"I hope that many Bulgarians will join the gay parade. Bulgaria and Bulgarians are famous for their tolerance, and this is a question of tolerance," Warlick has told the bTV private channel, as cited by the Sega daily.

"A homosexual community exists in Bulgaria and it should be treated with respect and dignity. This is the message this parade is sending...That is why the US Embassy will support the parade in all ways possible," he added.

The US Embassy in Sofia traditionally supports the Sofia Pride LGBT parade. The event's 2011 edition was also supported by the embassies of Belgium, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, the UK and Slovenia.

Barack Obama recently became the first sitting US President to officially declare his support for same-sex marriage.

James Warlick was recently recalled ahead of schedule and will be replaced by Marcie Ries as US Ambassador to Bulgaria.

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