Switzerland and Bulgaria sign joint programs for air and migration

In an official ceremony with the participation of high-ranking state representatives, two key international treaties were signed, marking the next stage of bilateral cooperation between Switzerland and Bulgaria.

Vice Prime Minister Tomislav Donchev emphasized that the agreements go beyond the usual financial support. They represent a platform for mutual exchange of expertise, knowledge, and establishing new partnership relations between the two countries.

The first program, titled "Improving Air Quality", has a budget of 15 million Swiss francs. Its main goal is to modernize the national monitoring system and provide precise information about atmospheric pollution.

Minister Manol Genov from the Ministry of Environment and Water emphasized the opportunity to acquire the most modern technical equipment. This will allow Bulgaria to perform precise measurements and exchange reliable data with the European air monitoring system.

The second program "Providing Support for Migration Management" has a budget of 3.7 million Swiss francs. It is focused on comprehensive activities related to migration policy and social integration.

Key areas include supporting border management, preventing human trafficking, and expanding migration centers in four Bulgarian cities - Sofia, Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv.

Minister Daniel Mitov from the Ministry of Interior highlighted the social significance of the program, emphasizing the need to provide employment opportunities and quick social adaptation for people with international protection.

Swiss Ambassador Raimund Furrer described the agreements as extremely high-quality, confirming the complete alignment of interests between the two countries.

Among the official partners of the program are the International Organization for Migration, the National Commission for Combating Human Trafficking, and the Swiss organization FIZ, specialized in supporting migrants and trafficking victims.

These bilateral initiatives demonstrate the deepening cooperation between Bulgaria and Switzerland in extremely sensitive social spheres.