Bulgaria hosts the Balkan Business Forum, where Turkish and Bulgarian business delegates discuss opportunities and challenges in bolstering trade and investment ties, underscoring the substantial potential for further collaboration between the two nations.
Turkiye’s Ambassador to Sofia, Mehmet Sait Uyanık, highlighted the substantial economic potential between Bulgaria and Turkiye during the Balkan Business Forum in Bansko. He pointed out that Turkish investments in Bulgaria have reached €2.5 billion, underscoring the significant trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.
Speaking at the forum, Ambassador Uyanık emphasized the importance of continually improving bilateral relations in all areas. He noted that despite the existing potential, there are challenges that need to be addressed, particularly regarding labor market issues faced by Turkish companies operating in Bulgaria. Ambassador Uyanık expressed satisfaction with the willingness of Bulgarian authorities to address these concerns and stressed the need for smoother visa and work permit processes to further enhance the investment environment.
Additionally, Krasimir Yakimov, Deputy Minister of Innovation and Growth in Bulgaria, highlighted the contributions of Turkish companies to the Bulgarian economy. He mentioned that there are over 2,500 Turkish companies operating in Bulgaria, providing employment opportunities in various sectors. Yakimov emphasized the strong economic ties between Bulgaria, Turkiye, and Romania, noting that both Turkiye and Romania are key economic partners for Bulgaria.
Mustafa Zeki Sarıbekir, Chairman of the Turkiye-Bulgaria Business Council at DEIK, emphasized the strategic importance of the relationship between Turkiye and Bulgaria, emphasizing the need to capitalize on the synergies between the two countries. He stressed that forums like the Balkan Business Forum provide significant opportunities for collaboration and business growth.
The forum, attended by over 250 business representatives from Bulgaria, Turkiye, and Romania, concluded with face-to-face business meetings aimed at exploring potential partnerships and investments.
Source: Dunya.com / Prepared by Irem Yildiz