The US Ambassador in Sofia, James Warlick, says he will have a very hard time parting with Bulgaria and the friends he would leave behind.

In a Monday interview for the Bulgarian National Television, BNT, Warlick admitted he might even shed a tear when it is time for departure, and explained that he woke up happy every single morning because he was US Ambassador to Bulgaria.

"I have many friends in Bulgaria. I hope to return here not as Ambassador, but as a friend. I hope Bulgarians will remember me as someone who has contributed to the good relations between our two countries," said he.

The diplomat also revealed that he was a good-natured and open person and never wore a mask on his face.

On May 25th US President Barack Obama officially announced that he has nominated Marcie Ries for Ambassador to Bulgaria, where she will replace James Warlick. The announcement was published on the site of the White House.

Warlick has refuted on several occasions media information that he has been recalled early.

In another TV interview for TV7, the diplomat explained that the US has started the procedure to nominate his replacement, but the decision has not yet been finalized.