Bilateral co-operation between Bulgaria and the Czech Republic is a wonderful way for the two countries to overcome the consequences of the economic and financial crisis. This view was shared by Vice President Margarita Popova and Miroslava N?mcová, Chairman of the Lower House of Parliament of the Czech Republic, at a meeting. The Vice President is on a working visit to the Czech Republic, where she will participate in the traditional gatherings of the Bulgarians in Central Europe.

Miroslava N?mcová welcomed Vice President Popova by saying that she was happy that the visit is happening on May 24 because Cyril and Methodius are people who strongly bind the two peoples. She described as excellent the level of modern political relations between the two countries. It is crucial that the excellent relations between the institutions of both countries are also reflected in the field of economic relations, Mrs N?mcová said, adding that Bulgaria is a very popular destination among Czech tourists.

Vice President Popova expressed confidence that Europe will overcome the crisis and emerge stronger from it. “I agree that we need to intensify our relations in the economic field, especially in the sectors of tourism and energy,” she said. Joint venture companies and bilateral exchange of scientific personnel are other possible ways of co-operation, she said.

The Vice President pointed to Bulgaria’s financial stability and the fact that Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Simeon Djankov had become Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. “This is great recognition for Bulgarian government policy in the financial area,” she said.

Miroslava N?mcová briefed the Bulgarian Vice President on Czech institutions’ ideas for next year's celebrations of the 1150th anniversary of Great Moravian Mission of the holy brothers and invited Margarita Popova to the festivities. Vice President Popova said that the Bulgarian state would do everything possible to participate honorably in the festivities. "The work of Cyril and Methodius and their students in the construction of Europe is a reason for Bulgaria to take pride,” she said.