Velislava Petrova: Bulgaria Is Seeking Concrete Partnerships in an Increasingly Competitive International Environment
23 September 2026 News
Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova attended the opening of the General Debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York as part of Bulgaria’s official delegation.
As part of her intensive programme, Minister Petrova held a series of bilateral meetings with partners from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
She held talks with the foreign ministers of Singapore, Vivian Balakrishnan, and Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov. Meetings were also held with the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“Foreign policy has value when it creates tangible opportunities for the country – greater security, stronger economic ties and stronger international partnerships,” Minister Petrova emphasised during the discussions.
The main topics included the development of bilateral relations, international security, trade and investment, energy and strategic connectivity.
In the discussions with the foreign ministers of Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, particular emphasis was placed on strategic connectivity and the potential for stronger transport, energy and economic links between Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Preparations for the Regional Connectivity Summit, which Bulgaria will host in 2027, were also discussed. The forum will provide an opportunity to forge new partnerships and translate regional priorities into concrete projects and investment.
The second day of Minister Petrova’s visit to New York also included a meeting with Alexander De Croo, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as well as participation in a high-level event dedicated to global food security in the Black Sea region.
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