Bulgaria and Armenia are looking at running charter flights from Yerevan to Burgas and Varna, the tourism ministry says. In Yerevan, deputy tourism minister Mariela Modeva met Anushik Avetyan, who heads the tourism committee at Armenia's economy ministry.

They also discussed swapping experts and journalists between the two countries and building joint tourism products. Bulgaria and Armenia are now drawing up a joint action plan for 2027-2029.

Modeva pitched Bulgaria as a spot for medical, spa, balneo and wellness tourism, pointing to its mineral resources, its rehabilitation experience and the facilities it offers visitors.

"Medical tourism isn't just about treatment. The patient is also a guest in the country, and quality, safety and the overall experience matter a great deal," Modeva said.

The visit took place around a conference called "Travel to Heal, Stay to Recover: When Patients Become Guests." While in Yerevan, Modeva also met local tourism industry representatives.

She also exchanged greetings with World Tourism Organization secretary-general Sheikha Al Nowais on cooperation with Bulgaria's tourism ministry.