In an official meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a large-scale diplomatic dialogue was conducted between the Bulgarian foreign policy leadership and the representative of Australia. Ambassador Alison Duncan, accredited in Athens, was received by Minister Georg Georgiev for an in-depth conversation about bilateral relations.
The diplomats reached a consensus on key international topics, with a special emphasis placed on perspectives within European-Australian relations. Specifically, opportunities for resuming free trade agreement negotiations and the development of dialogue between NATO and Australia were discussed.
Ambassador Duncan highlighted Bulgaria's progress in the process of joining the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. For his part, Minister Georgiev defined Australia as an extremely important strategic partner in the Asia-Pacific region.
During the meeting, successful bilateral initiatives were noted, including negotiating an Agreement to Avoid Double Taxation. Practical cooperation in the field of underwater cultural heritage was additionally discussed.
As part of her visit, Ambassador Duncan visited the city of Sozopol, where she became acquainted with specific joint studies by Bulgarian and Australian specialists related to the sunken ship Urdoviza. The significant contribution of the Bulgarian community in Australia to the country's cultural diversity was also emphasized.
The meeting reinforced the existing friendly relations, based on shared values and mutual interest in further deepening bilateral cooperation.