In brief
At a meeting in Sofia on Wednesday, President Iliana Iotova called Saudi Arabia Bulgaria’s most promising partner in the Middle East, emphasizing security, innovation, and future trade ties. She cited the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the need to stabilize the Strait of Hormuz, and floated a direct air link between Sofia and Riyadh. Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef Al Saud and Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev attended the discussion.
President Iliana Iotova spoke at a meeting in Sofia on Wednesday, calling Saudi Arabia Bulgaria’s most promising partner in the Middle East amid discussions with Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef Al Saud and Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev.
BTA reported that Iotova praised the Kingdom as a strategic partner, noting that strengthening security cooperation would provide a foundation for expanding relations into broader areas such as innovation, trade, and technology.
She highlighted the conflict in the Persian Gulf and the disruptions to freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that the security of global supplies was at risk. Iotova stressed Saudi Arabia’s key role in stabilizing and normalizing the region, framing the Kingdom as a “stable factor” in efforts to de‑escalate tensions.
In addition to security ties, Iotova explored opportunities for Bulgarian companies to participate in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 modernization and development campaigns. She said that expertise in artificial intelligence and high technology could find applications in numerous Saudi projects. The president also expressed interest in the Future Investment Initiative, a high‑profile forum launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to connect public and private sectors.
Noting Bulgaria’s long-standing historic ties with the Kingdom, Iotova proposed establishing a direct air link between Sofia and Riyadh. She said the new connection would open doors for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
During the meeting, the Saudi Interior Minister conveyed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s congratulations to Iotova on her election as president and expressed optimism about deepening bilateral relations. He also highlighted Bulgaria’s importance as a reliable partner for Saudi Arabia.
The Bulgarian Interior Ministry separately stated that the two countries are stepping up cooperation in security and internal affairs, echoing the president’s emphasis on a robust partnership.
