Bulgaria highly values Japan's investments in our country, which contribute not only to the economic cooperation between the two countries. They serve as an example of a successful model for the organisation of entrepreneurial activity and of effective interaction between the education system, science, business and institutions, from which we can borrow especially in the field of innovation and high-tech industries. This is what Head of State Rumen Radev said at a meeting with a delegation of more than 70 Japanese companies from various sectors, led by Susumu Kataoka, President of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). Ambassador of Japan in Sofia, H. E. Hisashi Michigami, also took part in the talks.

 

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 cooperation between Bulgaria and Japan, President Radev said. The Head of State welcomed the JETRO investment interest in Bulgaria and highlighted our country's geostrategic position and the access it provides to the European market. The President noted our country's efforts to develop transport, energy and digital connectivity in the Central and Eastern European region - a priority also set by the Three Seas Initiative, of which Japan is a new strategic partner.

 

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

 

The opening of a direct air route between Bulgaria and Japan will encourage investments, tourism and exchanges between our young people, the President further said. During the meeting, the Japanese companies raised issues related to the development of nuclear energy in Bulgaria, the promotion of our country as a spa destination, as well as topics related to the promotion of European competitiveness.