The upcoming Vietnam visit by Bulgarian Prime Minister Plamen Oresharki is expected to create a chance for leaders of both countries to discuss measures to boost bilateral ties in all fields, especially economics, trade and investment.

During the visit from April 6-9, the two sides will also seek ways to implement the Vietnam-Bulgaria new cooperation model and encourage businesses of both sides to strengthen their connectivity.

Vietnam and Bulgaria have enjoyed a sound traditional relationship over the past more than six decades since they set up their diplomatic ties in February 1950. Bulgaria was also one of the first countries to establish such relations with Vietnam .

The visit by late President Ho Chi Minh to Bulgaria in 1957 marked an important milestone in the bilateral ties. From 1950-1989, Bulgaria gave Vietnam precious help during the country’s struggle for national independence.

Bulgaria has also paid much attention to the development of ties with Vietnam in its Asia policy. The two countries hope to lift up bilateral ties to strategic partnership.

Two-way annual trade stands at 70-80 million USD.

The two countries are taking steps to implement a new economic cooperation model on the basis of making full use of the strengths of each side.

Bulgaria is currently running seven FDI projects in Vietnam with a total capital of more than 30 million USD, ranking 57 th among the 98 countries and territories investing in the country.

Bilateral partnership in other fields such as security, defence, education and training and culture has also seen positive progress.

The countries are carrying out an education cooperation programme for the 2012-2016 period. Bulgaria pledged to share its experience in heritage conservation and archaeology, while sending experts to help restore historical sites.

Currently, more than 1,000 Vietnamese citizens are living in the European country.

The two countries have shown close coordination at multilateral forums. Bulgaria supported Vietnam to join the World Trade Organisation and the UN Security Council for the 2008-09 term and the Human Rights Council in the 2014-16 tenure. Meanwhile, Vietnam favours Bulgaria’s nomination for a seat in the UN Economic and Social Council, the Chairmanship of the UNESCO, and a space in the International Court of Justice in 2011.-VNA