In brief
President Iliana Iotova identified Saudi Arabia as one of Bulgaria’s most promising Middle‑Eastern partners, stressing the importance of security cooperation in the Strait of Hormuz and the potential for collaboration in innovation and trade through Saudi Vision 2030. BTA noted that the Saudi Interior Minister conveyed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s congratulations to Iotova, underscoring optimism for deepening ties. Iotova also urged a direct air link between Sofia and Riyadh to boost business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
In a televised meeting in Sofia Wednesday, Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova announced that Saudi Arabia is among Bulgaria’s most promising partners in the Middle East, citing security cooperation and potential collaboration in innovation, trade, and technology.
Iotova stressed that the conflict in the Persian Gulf and disruptions to free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz endanger the security of supplies worldwide, and highlighted Saudi Arabia’s role as a stabilising factor in the region.
She noted the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 modernization plan offers opportunities for Bulgarian companies with expertise in artificial intelligence and high technology to participate in large‑scale development projects, and expressed interest in the Future Investment Initiative, a high‑profile forum launched by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
According to BTA, the Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud conveyed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s congratulations to President Iotova on her election, expressed optimism about deepening bilateral relations, and highlighted Bulgaria’s importance as a reliable partner.
Bulgaria’s Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev also attended the meeting, and the Interior Ministry said the two countries are stepping up cooperation in security and internal affairs.
Iotova reiterated her invitation to the Saudi Crown Prince to visit Bulgaria and urged the establishment of a direct air link between Sofia and Riyadh, which she said would open new opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
