Bulgaria and Japan Are Deepening Their Cooperation Across a Number of Sectors
Opportunities for enhancing bilateral trade and economic relations were discussed during a meeting in Tokyo between Minister of Economy and Industry Peter Dilov and Mr Yushiro Koga, State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan.
The meeting in the Japanese capital was also attended by Her Excellency Mrs Marieta Arabadzhieva, Ambassador of Bulgaria to Japan, and Mr Krasimir Ivanov, Head of the Bulgarian Trade and Economic Affairs Office in Tokyo.
Minister Dilov stated that there is significant potential for expanding trade and investment ties between the two countries. He outlined opportunities for partnership, particularly in the high-technology sectors and industry.
The Minister of Economy emphasised that Japan is a strategic economic partner for Bulgaria and underscored the mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The two ministers discussed the potential for more active cooperation in sectors of mutual interest such as high technology, innovation, energy, the automotive industry, and healthcare, among others.
According to Minister Dilov, there are opportunities for Japanese investment in the industrial zones in Bulgaria, operated by the National Company Industrial Zones under the Ministry of Economy and Industry. “The presence of Japanese enterprises in these zones would not only strengthen our bilateral cooperation but also provide them with strategic positioning in Europe,” he assured.
The Minister noted that Bulgaria’s recent accession to the Schengen Area and its forthcoming entry into the euro area further strengthen the country’s economic stability, financial predictability, and connectivity within Europe – key factors that enhance the security and confidence of international investors.
During the meeting, the two sides also discussed issues related to Bulgaria’s accession process to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). “We rely on Japan’s support, as an OECD and G7 member, in achieving this important goal, which will contribute to further aligning our policies and standards with those of the world’s most advanced economies,” Minister Dilov stated.
As part of his working visit to Tokyo, Minister Dilov and the accompanying delegation also met with Mr Susumu Kataoka, President of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).
The discussion took place at the headquarters of the government organisation responsible for promoting mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world.
The meeting addressed the implementation of more business missions and visits to Bulgaria, organised by JETRO. “The reopening of JETRO’s office in Bulgaria would undoubtedly give new momentum to our trade and economic partnership,” stated Minister Dilov.
For his part, Mr Kataoka emphasised that the establishment of a JETRO office in Bulgaria would be a strategic step towards strengthening cooperation between businesses from both countries and expressed hope that this would happen as soon as possible.