Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 28 March (BelTA) - Bulgaria positively assesses the strengthening of the dialogue between the European Union and Belarus, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Bulgaria to Belarus Angel Ganev said at a function held on 28 March to mark 25 years of diplomatic relations between Belarus and Bulgaria, BelTA has learned.

“We believe that the normalization of relations will open up new opportunities for the expansion of cooperation. Bulgaria will continue supporting Belarus in the Eastern Partnership initiative,” the diplomat said.

Speaking about the anniversary of the diplomatic relations with Belarus, the Bulgarian Ambassador stressed: “Historically, 25 years is a relatively small period of time. However, a lot has been done in the bilateral relations of our states. There are embassies operating in both the capitals. The legal framework has been updated. The two countries maintain a bilateral political dialogue, holds regular meetings of the intergovernmental commission.”

The Bulgarian diplomat stated that it is necessary to build up the exchange in the mutual foreign trade. “We are confident that we will achieve better progress in this area in the coming years,” said Angel Ganev. He took note of the role that tourism plays in the bilateral economic relations. “I can say that over 25 years of diplomatic relations more than 1.5 million of Belarusians have visited Bulgaria, spending time on our beaches, learning the Bulgarian culture, traditions and cuisine,” the Ambassador added.

In his words, Belarus is important for Bulgaria in view of mutual historical and cultural proximity. “We are optimistic about the recent intensification of business ties and cooperation between Bulgaria and Belarus, mutual readiness to expand bilateral relations in all the areas,” Angel Ganev stressed.

The event was hosted by Deputy Chairperson of the Belarus-Bulgaria Society Oksana Bekasova. Performing at the function were teachers of Minsk Music School No.10, prize-holders of international competitions Vadim Matlash and Irina Morozova, and also Alexander Volodchenko and the string ensemble Vivo.