30.01.2020
"Italy is an important partner for Bulgaria in the EU and an ally in NATO. We have excellent bilateral relations, and in order to strengthen them we continue our active political dialogue at all levels and our cooperation on issues of common interest. " This was stated by Prime Minister Boyko Borissov during his meeting with the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic Giuseppe Conte, who is on an official visit to Bulgaria at the invitation of his Bulgarian counterpart.
In the course of the talks, Prime Minister Borissov emphasized the high level of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, as well as the desire to increase Italian investments in Bulgaria and to expand the presence of Bulgarian goods on the Italian market. Positive evaluation was made for the 10.2% growth in the trade of goods for 2018, amounting to EUR 4.86 billion, compared to 2017.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov noted the desire to activate the bilateral partnership in the energy sector, given Italy's role in implementing the strategic project of the Southern Gas Corridor and improving energy security in the region.
The role of Italy is also important for the construction of the Balkan Stream to the border with Serbia, which was signed in September last year by Bulgartransgaz and the Arkad Consortium (Saudi Arabia and Italy). Expanding our country’s gas supply network together with other important projects contribute to strengthening Bulgaria's energy security and diversifying its energy routes.
A focus of the conversation between Prime Ministers Borissov and Conte was strengthening cooperation, the exchange of good practices and expertise in the field of road infrastructure and construction, taking into account the experience of Italy and the comparative advantages of the two countries.
"We also have different opportunities for joint projects and encouraging tourism," said Prime Minister Borissov, pointing to Bulgaria's natural assets for sea, mountain, cultural, eco and spa tourism. The Bulgarian Prime Minister also wished to strengthen the partnership in the field of cultural heritage. Prime Minister Borissov noted to his Italian counterpart Conte how rich in artifacts Bulgaria is, ranking third in this indicator in Europe just after Italy and Greece.
