Bulgarian Dental Association Head Named FDI World Dental Federation President Elect

AUSTRALIA: In a historic moment at the FDI World Dental Congress 2023 held in Sydney, Australia, Nikolai Sharkov, the head of the Bulgarian Dental Association (BDA), was elected as the President Elect of the FDI World Dental Federation. 

The announcement was made by BDA Secretary General Borislav Milanov, who revealed that Sharkov secured an impressive 66% of the session’s member votes, totaling 97 votes, thus becoming the first Bulgarian to hold this prestigious position.

Long-Awaited Achievement

Sharkov’s election as President Elect marks a significant achievement in his career, given his previous role as the FDI World Dental Federation Treasurer. Milanov acknowledged that this success was the culmination of years of dedication and hard work, not only by Sharkov himself but also by numerous individuals, including his colleagues at the BDA.

From Virtual to In-Person: FDI World Dental Congress Returns to Sydney after 2 Years

The role of FDI World Dental Federation President Elect carries a two-year term, during which Sharkov will be preparing to assume the position of President. In the interim period, he will collaborate closely with the current president, as elucidated by Milanov.

FDI World Dental Federation’s Global Impact

The FDI World Dental Federation is a global organisation that brings together representatives from dental organisations in over 147 countries. Established in the late 19th century, the federation has consistently focused on dental health policy and advocacy. Bulgaria became a member of this esteemed organisation in 2003, and Milanov emphasised the nation’s remarkable progress during its two decades of membership.

FDI Sustainability in Dentistry Summit 2023

“In these 20 years, we have proven through our work, despite being a small country, that we have the resources and can be trusted,” Milanov asserted, highlighting Bulgaria’s valuable contributions to the global dental community.

Nikolai Sharkov’s election to the position of FDI World Dental Federation President Elect not only reflects his personal accomplishments but also underscores Bulgaria’s growing influence and active participation on the international stage of dental health policy and advocacy. His tenure holds the promise of continued advancements and collaborations within the global dental community.