Bulgarian President Rumen Radev Begins Official Visit to Vietnam

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Bulgarian President Rumen Radev and his wife arrived at Nội Bài International Airport yesterday, marking the commencement of their official visit to Vietnam at the invitation of State President Lương Cường. The visit, scheduled to last until November 28, comes ahead of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, underscoring Bulgaria’s commitment to strengthening its traditional friendship with Vietnam.

Bulgarian Ambassador to Vietnam Pavlin Todorov highlighted the significance of this visit, noting it as a pivotal opportunity to review the longstanding friendship and effective cooperation between the two countries while outlining pathways for future collaboration. Speaking to the Vietnam News Agency, Todorov emphasized the shared commitment to developing tangible outcomes in economic and other fields.

During his visit, President Radev will engage with key Vietnamese leaders, including President Cường, Party General Secretary Tô Lâm, National Assembly Chairman Trần Thanh Mẫn, and Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính. His itinerary also includes a speech at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, participation in a business forum, a meeting with the Vietnam – Bulgaria Friendship Association, and visits to Hải Phòng City and other localities.

A series of bilateral agreements are expected to be signed, including a joint declaration and cooperation deals in education, trade, and investment, providing fresh impetus for collaboration across multiple domains. Ambassador Todorov expressed hope that these agreements would strengthen Bulgaria’s position as a reliable partner and enhance its appeal as a destination for business, tourism, and education.

He also noted recent highlights in bilateral relations, such as high-level parliamentary exchanges and the successful 24th session of the Vietnam-Bulgaria Intergovernmental Committee held earlier this year. These developments have revitalized political dialogue and cooperation across sectors, further bolstered by robust trade ties. Bilateral trade turnover doubled between 2015 and 2023, reaching $211.5 million and is projected to hit $300 million this year—a 20% increase from the previous year.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Bulgaria Đỗ Hoàng Long praised the efforts of both nations in fostering enduring ties over seven decades. He emphasized consistent high-level exchanges, periodic political consultations, and active collaboration in international forums. Areas of cooperation include politics, economics, education, science, culture, defence, and labour, achieving positive results across the board.

President Radev’s visit is expected to deepen the multifaceted cooperation between Vietnam and Bulgaria, particularly in areas of mutual interest and complementary strengths. The visit also lays a foundation for the upcoming 75th-anniversary celebrations, which will feature commemorative events, high-level visits, and political consultations.

This milestone in Vietnam-Bulgaria relations reaffirms their shared commitment to peace, development, and mutual prosperity.