History

This Order was instituted by the Presidium and it was conferred upon foreigners in recognition of contributions to the creation and maintenance of international relationships with Bulgaria.

The Order is equal in precedence with the Order of the People’s Republic of Bulgaria.

The grades were awarded in two division, to civilians and to military personnel.

The grades conferred upon civilians have a plain surmounting suspension.

The grades conferred upon military personnel have a surmounting crossed swords suspension.

The Order was designed by a team lead by Professor Dechko Uzunov.

The Order was not discontinued following the fall of the People's Republic of Bulgaria, it continued to be awarded in the Republic of Bulgaria.