Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria Atanas Zafirov confirmed our country's commitment to supporting Armenia in its efforts for European integration. This took place during a meeting with the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to Bulgaria, Ms. Tsovinar Hambartsumyan.
„Bulgaria views Armenia as a close partner and reliable ally in the region. We will continue to support Yerevan on its path to the European Union, sharing our experience and expertise. There is real potential for a deeper strategic partnership based on economy, security and common values,“ said Zafirov, who has been the Chairman of the Bulgaria Friendship Group for four consecutive terms – Armenia in the National Assembly.
Ambassador Ambartsumyan, for her part, emphasized that Armenia perceives Bulgaria as the closest EU member state to it and as a country that can really help it in the process of European integration. She expressed hope that a Bulgarian ambassador to Yerevan will be appointed as soon as possible - a step that will give additional impetus to bilateral relations.
The meeting discussed opportunities for strengthening economic partnership. Armenia is interested in the Bulgarian military industry, as well as in increasing investments by Armenian businesses in Bulgaria. The need to improve transport and air connectivity was also emphasized, as an important factor for activating trade and tourism.
Political and inter-parliamentary cooperation between the two countries has been developing actively in recent years, and the contribution of Deputy Prime Minister Zafirov to the deepening of these ties was highly appreciated by the Armenian side. In 2022, in recognition of his long-standing active role in the development of Bulgarian-Armenian relations, the President of the Republic of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan awarded Atanas Zafirov with the Medal of Gratitude of the Armenian State - a high distinction that emphasizes the significance of his work for the benefit of the bilateral partnership.
The meeting confirmed the common will to move to a new stage in relations between Bulgaria and Armenia - based on pragmatic actions, strategic trust and a shared vision for the future.