Velislava Petrova: Bulgaria and Japan have the potential to expand their strategic partnership
28 September 2026 News
Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Japan's Ambassador to Bulgaria Chikahisa Sumi. The two discussed opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation and deepen the established strategic partnership between Bulgaria and Japan.
Trade and economic relations, investments, energy, tourism, science and technology, as well as educational and cultural exchanges were highlighted as priority areas.
"Areas such as business and research are ahead of government action. We must take advantage of the opportunities that are being created and actively support the implementation of initiatives with great potential,” the Foreign Minister said.
Minister Petrova welcomed the established cooperation between the Institute of Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technologies (INSAIT) and the National Research Agency of Japan RIKEN. The partnership covers areas of artificial intelligence such as robotics, machine learning and computer vision.
The conversation also focused on opportunities to promote educational and youth exchanges through various programs to allow young people to get to know the country better.
Both sides also stressed the key importance of connectivity in the current geopolitical context. "This is not just a major issue on the political agenda. Connectivity is the implementation of specific projects and partnerships, and this is exactly what Bulgaria's efforts are aimed at,” Minister Petrova stressed.
More photos
