Outgoing Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov gave his farewell speech at the handing down ceremony Sunday, after serving two terms in office.

"In the past Bulgaria has had strong, pro-active, working presidents. It is to the credit of Presidents Zhelyu Zhelev and Petar Stoyanov credit that they contributed to the prestige of the institution. I hope that President Plevneliev will continue this tradition," said Parvanov.

In his speech, the outgoing President stressed the need for the Bulgarian President to embody tolerance, dialogue and national unity.

"Bulgarian presidents, I included, have worked hard to overcome the deep divisions that have plagued Bulgarian societies," recalled Parvanov.

"Unity, however, does not mean uniformity of political thinking. One-party domination of Bulgarian political life cannot be good for the country," said he.

"President Plevneliev must work to create a balance of powers and be keen on voicing his position, in harmony with the interests of the people," added Parvanov.

The former Bulgarian Socialist Party leader advised his successor as Bulgaria's President to take into account the views of both ruling parties and opposition.

"Bulgaria's President must work hard to entrench a new political culture pitted against hatred, aggression, and demonization of political opponents," said Parvanov.

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