site.btaTurkiye Shows Interest in Further Easing Visa Procedures

Deepening cooperation in tourism between Bulgaria and Turkiye was discussed by Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh and Turkiye's Ambassador to Bulgaria Mehmet Sait Uyanik, Tourism Ministry press centre said on Friday.

A key topic in the talks was the visa regime for Turkish citizens. The Turkish side has expressed its interest in further easing of visa procedures.

Borshosh and Uyanik looked at opportunities to improve transport connectivity, including new airlines between Sofia and Istanbul, as well as the upcoming opening of the ferry line between Istanbul and Burgas.

The Tourism Minister expressed satisfaction with the strong tourism ties between Bulgaria and Turkiye and noted the significant increase of Turkish tourists visiting Bulgaria in 2024.

"Bulgaria and Turkiye have a deep tradition in tourism and we continue to work towards even better connectivity and joint initiatives. I am glad that our country is establishing itself as a preferred destination for Turkish tourists, especially in the areas of cultural and winter tourism", Borshosh said.

Uyanik also underlined the importance of the tourist exchange between the two countries and highlighted the growing interest of Turkish citizens in Bulgaria. "Bulgaria is an important partner for Turkiye in the field of tourism and cultural exchange. We are happy about the growing interest from the Turkish side and believe that through joint efforts we will create even more opportunities for the development of the tourism sector," he added.