site.bta President Radev Meets with Japan External Trade Organization Business Delegation

President Rumen Radev held a meeting with a delegation of over 70 Japanese companies from various sectors, led by the President of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), Susumu Kataoka Japanese Ambassador to Bulgaria Hisashi Michigami also took part in the conversation.

Radev said that Bulgaria highly values ​​Japan's investments in this country, which contribute not only to the economic cooperation between the two countries, but serve as an example of a successful model for the organization of entrepreneurial activity and of effective interaction between the educational system, science, business and institutions.

"Within a week, this is my second meeting with representatives of leading Japanese companies, which is a clear sign of the positive direction of the joint efforts to deepen the cooperation between Bulgaria and Japan," noted Radev. He welcomed JETRO's investment interest in Bulgaria and highlighted the geostrategic position of this country and the access it provides to the European market. The President noted the efforts of this country to develop transport, energy and digital connectivity in the region of Central and Eastern Europe, a priority that was also set by the Three Seas Initiative, of which Japan is a new strategic partner.

The knowledge of Bulgarian students, proven in numerous world Olympiads in exact and natural sciences, as well as the skills of young scientists and specialists in the field of information technology and artificial intelligence, are the most valuable advantage of this country, stated President Radev and highlighted the opportunities for cooperation with Japan in the field of development of scientific and research infrastructure. As a positive example for Bulgaria, the President pointed to the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) at Sofia University, which, although opened only two years ago, already attracts scientists, researchers and business representatives from all over the world. In recent years, Bulgaria has made remarkable progress in the automotive sector, in the field of robotics and electronics, in the production of micro-satellites, in the fintech industry, said President Radev and indicated the opportunities for cooperation in these areas.

The opening of a direct flight between Bulgaria and Japan will encourage investment, tourism and exchange between our young people, the President also said. During the meeting, the Japanese companies raised questions related to the development of nuclear energy in Bulgaria, the promotion of the country as a spa destination, as well as topics related to the promotion of European competitiveness.