Vietnam and Bulgaria share a long-standing traditional friendship. This visit marks the first time in 50 years that the head of the Communist Party of Vietnam has visited Bulgaria, signifying a new chapter in bilateral relations.

The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties (1950–2025) between the two nations. Over the decades, their relationship has been built on mutual trust, solidarity, and support during both the national liberation struggle and ongoing national development.

This is also the fourth high-level exchange between the two countries in the past three years, underscoring strong political ties and strategic trust between their leaders.

The visit comes at a time when both countries have achieved notable progress in socio-economic development and regional and international integration.

In 2024, bilateral trade increased by nearly 30% compared to the previous year, demonstrating positive signs of recovery and growth. Over the first nine months of 2025, Vietnam's exports to Bulgaria continued to expand, especially in agriculture, textiles, and light industry.

In investment, Bulgaria’s National Assembly ratified the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) in September 2023, providing a stronger legal framework for bilateral cooperation.

Bulgarian enterprises are increasingly interested in Vietnam, particularly in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, renewable energy, agricultural processing, and logistics.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese businesses view Bulgaria as a strategic gateway into the European Union, thanks to its advantageous geographic location, well-developed transportation infrastructure, and improved business climate.

Labor cooperation is emerging as a promising new area. Amid Bulgaria’s labor shortage, an increasing number of Vietnamese workers are employed in fields such as construction, mechanics, food processing, and healthcare.

Education and scientific cooperation also remain highlights. The two countries maintain regular exchanges of students and researchers, with many universities and research institutions having signed academic and research agreements.

Cultural and tourism exchange as well as people-to-people diplomacy are also gaining momentum. The Vietnam–Bulgaria and Bulgaria–Vietnam Friendship Associations regularly co-organize photo exhibitions, cultural exchange events, film screenings, and Vietnamese cuisine festivals, deepening mutual understanding and affection.

The Vietnamese community in Bulgaria continues to serve as a bridge of friendship, actively participating in local social and cultural activities.

Tran Thuong