site.btaLocal Personnel Development Gives Business Long-Term Solution, Economy and Industry Minister Says

"The long-term solution for business is to develop the potential of local personnel and implement reskilling programmes and dual education," Bulgarian Economy and Industry Minister Bogdan Bogdanov said here on Tuesday.

He was addressing the participants in a forum on labour market opportunities in Northeastern Bulgaria, organized by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy.

Taking part in the meeting were Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov, Labour and Social Policy Minister Ivanka Shalapatova, Education and Science Minister Galin Tsokov, Economy and Industry Minister Bogdan Bogdanov, and Innovation and Growth Minister Milena Stoycheva.

"Access to the local labour market for third country professionals should be eased," Bogdanov added. In his words, such people should be able to start work and integrate easily once they find a job in this country. He argued that, to this end, the administrative burden should be reduced and time limits should be shortened. Seeking skilled labour abroad, however, is a short-term solution, whereas the long-term solution is training professionals at home, Bogdanov pointed out.

As a problem, he singled out regional disparities and the need of greater support for some of the regions. These issues can be addressed by setting up an appropriate infrastructure, improving north-south links within the country, and establishing industrial zones to attract innovative, high value added businesses. As a fine example in this respect, the Minister cited Shumen-based Alcomet AD, which has been named investor of the year. Bogdanov specified that Bulgaria proves itself as a successful investment destination through such solid investors.