Bulgaria and Montenegro Deepen Cooperation in Key Sectors

A government delegation led by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has arrived on an official two-day visit to Montenegro, the press service of the Council of Ministers announced today. The visit, which will take place today and tomorrow, is aimed at deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in key sectors.

High-Level Meetings and Signing of Key Documents

As part of the visit, Prime Minister Zhelyazkov will hold a series of high-level meetings. Talks are scheduled with his Montenegrin counterpart Milojko Spajić, as well as with the President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović. These meetings are intended to strengthen political dialogue and outline future directions for joint work.

Two important documents are expected to be signed today, which will lay the groundwork for closer cooperation. Prime Minister Zhelyazkov and Milojko Spajić will sign an agreement on scientific and technological cooperation. This document, whose signing was approved by the Bulgarian government on September 3, provides a new perspective for the development of bilateral ties in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. The focus is on bilateral projects that will be financed by both countries, as well as on the mobility of scientists and the exchange of data and information for joint research. It is planned that joint activities will be carried out through coordinated programs, research projects, scientific seminars, conferences, and the exchange of scientific information and specialists.

In addition, the transport ministers of the two countries, Grozdan Karadzhov and Maja Vukičević, will sign a bilateral declaration. With it, the two countries express their strong desire to secure a direct air route to connect the capitals Sofia and Podgorica. This step is seen as key to facilitating economic, tourist, and cultural contacts between Bulgaria and Montenegro.

Historical Focus and Public Lecture

Prime Minister Zhelyazkov's program also includes cultural and educational initiatives that highlight shared historical ties. On the occasion of the 140th anniversary of the Unification of the Principality of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia, he will unveil a bust-monument of Prince Alexander I of Battenberg. The ceremony will take place at the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Montenegro. Prince Battenberg is a historical figure with exceptional merits to the Bulgarian people, and his role in the unification process is noted as one of his greatest merits.

"The unveiling of the monument is expected to gather students and faculty who will watch with interest the event that symbolizes friendship and shared history."

In addition, Rosen Zhelyazkov will deliver a public lecture to university students, which will provide an opportunity for direct dialogue and exchange of ideas with the young people of Montenegro.

Broad Government Delegation

The official delegation accompanying the prime minister also includes:

• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications Grozdan Karadzhov,
• Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh and
• Minister of Health Silvi Kirilov.

Each of them will hold separate meetings with their Montenegrin counterparts to discuss specific issues of mutual interest in their respective sectors. This broad representation of the Bulgarian government is an indication of the country's serious intention to develop cooperation with Montenegro in multiple areas.