site.btaBulgarian Prime Minister Talks with Turkey's EU Affairs Minister

Sofia, December 1 (BTA) - Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov told Turkey's EU Affairs Minister Omer Celik that the steady and sustainable development of the two countries' relations is a priority for Sofia's foreign policy, the Bulgarian government press service reported on Friday. Celik, who is also Chief Negotiator for Turkey's Accession to the EU, was paying a visit here.

The sides noted that Bulgaria's relations with Turkey are based on the principles of good-neighbourliness, mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs.

Borissov stressed that Turkey is an immediate neighbour of Bulgaria, an ally in NATO and an important partner in such areas as migration, the fight against terrorism, energy, agriculture and trade. "Our active and constructive dialogue at various levels over the last few months has contributed to the positive atmosphere of our bilateral relations," the host further said.

Borissov and Celik gave high marks for the two countries' efforts to deal with migrant movements and acknowledged the positive effect of the EU-Turkey migration agreement which has helped reduce the number of illegal migrants entering the EU.

They also pointed out the vigorous economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Turkey, concurring that more opportunities exist to promote bilateral ties in the sectors of energy and energy infrastructure, investments, agriculture, transport and tourism.