site.btaAgriculture Minister Vatev, Austrian Ambassador Ikic-Bohm Discuss Options for Farm Trade Expansion

Bulgarian Agriculture and Food Minister Kiril Vatev here on Thursday discussed opportunities for expanding bilateral trade in agricultural products with Austria's Ambassador in Sofia Andrea Ikic-Bohm, Vatev's Ministry said in a press release.

Vatev presented the high quality and export potential of Bulgarian wines and food products. He commented on opportunities for the exchange of knowledge and experience on veterinary medicine and organic farming. The Minister also acknowledged the contribution of the Austrian Economic Chamber to the promotion of bilateral relations and cited specific examples of successful Austrian food-processing companies which share their achievements and experience.

For her part, Ambassador Ikic-Bohm commented on two-way trade and said that Austria attaches particular importance on the exchange of pedigree animals and genetic materials. The diplomat outlined her country's priorities as holder of the Presidency of EU Strategy for the Danube Region and explained that a programme of events to take place in the Danubian cities is being drawn up. Ikic-Bohn called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Food to back the Strategy's future initiatives.  

Vatev said in conclusion that he expects deepening future cooperation between the Bulgarian and the Austrian agriculture ministries.