President Iliana Iotova: Saudi Arabia Is One of Bulgaria’s Most Promising Partners in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia is one of Bulgaria’s most promising partners in the Middle East. Strengthening bilateral relations in the field of security provides a basis for expanding the partnership more broadly. President Iliana Iotova said this at a meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Interior, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif Al Saud, who is visiting Bulgaria, the President’s Press Secretariat announced on November 4. Bulgaria’s Minister of Interior, Ivan Demerdzhiev, also took part in the meeting.

Iliana Iotova said that the conflict in the Persian Gulf and the disruption of freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz were putting the security of global supplies at risk. The President highlighted the Kingdom’s key role as a stabilising force in efforts to normalise the situation and de-escalate tensions in the region.

The Head of State emphasised the considerable potential for deepening bilateral cooperation in the innovation sector. Saudi Arabia’s impressive Vision 2030 strategy for modernisation and large-scale development offers opportunities for Bulgarian companies with extensive expertise in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies to participate in various projects, the Bulgarian President said.

Bulgaria is also interested in the prestigious forum 'Future Investment Initiative', an initiative launched by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, which promotes engagement between the public and private sectors. Establishing a direct flight between Sofia and Riyadh would create new opportunities for business, tourism and cultural exchange between the two countries, both of which have a long history, Iliana Iotova added.

The Saudi Interior Minister conveyed congratulations to Iliana Iotova on behalf of the Kingdom’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, on her election as President of Bulgaria. He expressed optimism about further strengthening bilateral relations and highlighted Bulgaria’s importance as a reliable partner.

The Bulgarian President renewed her invitation to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Bulgaria.