Daijiworld Media Network – Sofia

Sofia, June 11: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for India and Bulgaria to reshape their traditional friendship into a modern, forward-looking partnership, stressing the need to explore new avenues of cooperation in line with evolving global realities.

Addressing engagements during his visit to Bulgaria, Jaishankar said the two countries enjoy warm and longstanding relations and should now work towards building a contemporary partnership focused on future opportunities and shared interests.

The External Affairs Minister held discussions with Bulgarian leaders on strengthening bilateral ties across a range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, mobility, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, space, tourism and the creative industries.

Highlighting the changing global landscape, Jaishankar noted that both nations have significant potential to deepen cooperation and expand economic engagement. He emphasised the importance of leveraging complementary strengths to enhance mutual growth and development.

The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments and reaffirmed their commitment to closer collaboration on issues of common concern.

Jaishankar's visit is part of his official tour of Bulgaria and Finland aimed at further strengthening India's engagement with European partners and exploring new opportunities for cooperation.

India and Bulgaria have shared diplomatic relations since 1954, and both countries continue to maintain cordial ties supported by growing economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.