Rumen Radev said that Turkey is not only a neighboring and friendly country, but also a key partner for Bulgaria in several strategic areas, including security, migration, energy, and transport connectivity. He also highlighted emerging fields with strong potential for cooperation, such as high technologies and artificial intelligence.
The statement was made during Radev’s meeting with Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The Bulgarian prime minister noted that Fidan’s visit to Sofia represents an important next step toward deepening bilateral relations.
During the talks at the Council of Ministers, both sides focused on shared challenges as NATO allies and their common commitment to security, particularly in the Black Sea region. A strong example of effective cooperation in this area is the joint effort of Bulgaria, Turkey, and Romania within the Black Sea mine countermeasures group, which plays a vital role in safeguarding freedom of navigation and strengthening regional security.
Prime Minister Radev also emphasized the government’s efforts to ensure a favorable business environment in Bulgaria, pointing out the significant presence of Turkish investment. More than 2,200 Turkish companies operate in the country across manufacturing, trade, logistics, and services. As a result, Turkey ranks among Bulgaria’s leading foreign trade partners, with bilateral trade reaching a record €7.7 billion in 2024.
