Ellatzite-Med continues its 50th-anniversary celebrations in Etropole
The event took place in the central square of Etropole and gathered nearly 5,000 people, including numerous distinguished guests: public figures and representatives from science, business, and culture. Among them were employees, prominent local figures, university rectors, diplomats, trade union leaders, economic experts, media representatives, and sports legends such as Hristo Stoichkov (Honorary Citizen of Etropole), Lyubo Ganev, and Neshka Robeva.
Prof. Voutov, whose career started as a land surveyor at the national project Ellatzite in 1976, recounted the company’s early days, recalling the establishment of Ellatzite Copper Mining and Processing Plant in 1975, when the main office was located in the town of Etropole. He emphasized the crucial role of the people who have driven the company’s growth since the 1950s, paying tribute to pioneers such as geologist Anton Ushev, director Ivan Zahariev, Gosho Kostov and many others who dedicated their lives to building the enterprise – often in very challenging conditions.
As a person who has been part of the company’s growth and development over the years, Prof. Voutov highlighted significant technical milestones, including the construction of a 6.5 km underground ore transport tunnel – a remarkable design and engineering achievement. He also acknowledged the contribution of the directors and engineers who have guided the company through times of prosperity and crises.
‘In the 1990s, Ellatzite-Med was on the verge. Copper prices were low, the company was indebted and no one wanted to buy it,’ he said. He added that Geotechmin formed a team of specialists and, with decisive support from partners such as Mr Philippe Rombaut and Mr Tom Beamish from Union Minière, applied for privatization.
Prof. Voutov explained how obsolete and inefficient mining equipment was replaced with modern machinery, leading to a significant increase in productivity in the following years. ‘All of this was made possible thanks to our people – the dedication of our engineering and technical staff and their consistent teamwork.’
M.Eng. Dragomir Draganov, Executive Director of Ellatzite-Med, acknowledged that the company had faced challenging years. He emphasized that, thanks to significant investments and the professionalism of its employees, Ellatzite-Med has transformed into a modern, socially responsible and sustainably developing leader in the mineral raw materials industry, which cares for its workers and guarantees long-term employment.
Sofia Regional Governor Silvia Arnautska congratulated Ellatzite-Med’s management team on the investments made in Sofia Region and expressed confidence that the mining industry has a viable future. She also extended her congratulations to all miners.
M.Eng. Vladimir Aleksandrov, Mayor of Etropole Municipality, highlighted the vital role of university graduates in mining-related fields in securing Bulgaria’s industrial future. ‘Today is not just a celebration – it is a historic moment. Prof. Voutov, M.Eng. Draganov, if we believe that good deeds bring happiness, then you must be among the happiest people. Thank you for continuing to support not only Etropole Municipality, but also the entire Srednogorie region,’ he said from the stage.
Hristo Stoichkov, Honorary Citizen of Etropole Municipality, expressed his pride in being part of the local community. He talked about his 20-year relationship with the town and his football school, which has produced many players who went on to compete in Group A and represent the national team. He congratulated Ellatzite-Med’s employees, comparing them to ‘genuine diamonds.’
Plamen Dimitrov, President of the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (KNSB), defined the mining industry as a model of social dialogue. He praised the successful cooperation between workers, trade unions and management, emphasizing that industry and mining are vital to Bulgaria’s economic future.
Danail Mladenov, President of the Miners’ Federation of Podkrepa Confederation of Labour, outlined Ellatzite-Med’s contribution to ensuring sustainable employment and economic stability in the region for half a century.
His Eminence Gavriil, Metropolitan of Lovech, conducted a solemn water-blessing ceremony and shared a spiritual message reminding everyone of the protection of St Ivan Rilski, patron saint of Bulgarian miners.
