SOFIA, Jun 10: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday held high-level meetings with Bulgaria’s leadership, outlining a broad roadmap to strengthen the India-Bulgaria strategic partnership through enhanced cooperation in technology, industry, defence and connectivity.
During his visit to Sofia, Jaishankar met Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev and conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions underscored the growing momentum in bilateral relations and explored avenues for expanding collaboration amid evolving global economic and geopolitical challenges.
The two sides identified several priority areas for cooperation, including investment, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence, space research, defence production, tourism and the creative economy. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments of common concern.
Later, Jaishankar held delegation-level talks with Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova Chamova, reviewing the entire spectrum of bilateral engagement and assessing opportunities emerging from closer India-European Union ties.
The discussions highlighted prospects linked to the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement, deeper security cooperation and greater mobility between the two countries. Both ministers emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration in innovation, education, culture, scientific research and people to people exchanges while maintaining regular political dialogue.
Jaishankar said both nations were committed to transforming their longstanding friendship into a modern, future-oriented partnership capable of addressing emerging global opportunities and challenges.
As part of his engagements, the External Affairs Minister visited Bulgaria’s National Historical Museum, where he explored exhibits showcasing the country’s rich civilisational heritage spanning thousands of years.
He also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and Bulgarian well wishers of India, discussing ways to broaden academic, cultural and economic linkages.
Following the conclusion of his Bulgaria visit, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Finland to participate in the 14th Kultaranta Talks and hold meetings with Finnish leaders on bilateral and global issues.