Bulgarian-German Economic Relations in Focus at German Economy in Bulgaria Awards Ceremony

Metodi Yordanov

BTA Photo/Minko Chernev

Sofia,

30.01.2025 22:55

(BTA)

The economic relations between Bulgaria and Germany were at the focus of the 21st Awards for the German Economy in Bulgaria, presented by the German-Bulgarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (GBCIC) at a ceremony held at the University of National and World Economy on Thursday evening. The Bulgarian News Agency is a media partner of the event.

Bulgarian Economy Minister Petar Dilov said during the ceremony that Germany is a strategic partner of Bulgaria, leading both in trade and investments. He noted that trade between Bulgaria and Germany reached record levels in 2023, and the positive development of relations continued in 2024 despite the ongoing crisis. He described German companies as reliable and long-term investors. "In this dynamic environment, it is important for all of us to build even stronger partnerships and explore new opportunities for business on both sides," Dilov said.

German Ambassador to Bulgaria Irene Maria Plank said that her country supports Bulgaria's economic integration with the European family, including its membership in Schengen and its future entry into the eurozone. Ambassador Plank emphasized Germany's key role as Bulgaria's largest trading partner and described Bulgaria's entry into the Schengen Area at the beginning of 2025 as "historic," noting that it is a major achievement for both Bulgaria and Europe.

German-Bulgarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce President Tim Kurth said at the reception that Germany remains Bulgaria's strongest economic partner. Two-way trade is estimated at EUR 12 billion euros in 2024. "But our partnership is not limited to numbers. It is also about shared values and common goals. Together we are struggling with challenges such as the shortage of skilled labour and we need to find a solution," said Kurth.

The awards:

The computer software company SAP Labs Bulgaria received the award in the category "Large enterprise with a focus on innovation." SAP Labs Bulgaria CEO Radoslav Nikolov received the distinction from Economy and Industry Minister Petar Dilov and GBCIC President Tim Kurth.

Robot maker Simobotics was honoured in the category "Small or medium-sized enterprise with a focus on innovation." The company founder, Georgi Georgiev, received the award from German Ambassador to Bulgaria Irene Maria Plank and Tim Kurth.

The local subsidiary of hypermarket chain Kaufland won the award in the category "ESG: Environmental, Social, and Governance)." Kaufland Bulgaria CEO received the accolade from United Bulgarian Bank chief Christof De Mil and Tim Kurth.

/MY/

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30.01.2025 23:10 Culture