Prague (VNA) – The Vietnamese Embassy in Bulgaria has hosted a press conference in Sofia to commemorate the two countries’ 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations (February 8, 1950 – 2025), with representatives from 20 major Bulgarian media outlets and organisations in attendance.
Addressing the gathering, Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet reflected on Vietnam’s socio-economic transformation over nearly four decades of Doi Moi (renewal). From a war-torn and embargoed nation, Vietnam has made remarkable strides to become a dynamic economy with an increasingly prominent role in the region and the world, aiming to attain a high-income country status by 2045.
The diplomat underscored the significance of the 75-year diplomatic milestone, describing it as a testament to the steadfast and enduring friendship nurtured by generations of leaders and citizens from both countries. She also expressed Vietnam’s deep gratitude for the support of the Bulgarian people during its struggles for independence and national building.
A key highlight of the event was the announcement of the upcoming Vietnam–Bulgaria business forum, to be held on July 3. Organised by the embassy in partnership with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), the forum is expected to draw the direct participation of Vietnamese businesses alongside dozens of Bulgarian enterprises in sectors including pharmaceuticals, food, real estate, and labour services. Ambassador Nguyet voiced her hope that it would serve as a practical platform to enhance bilateral economic, trade and investment cooperation.
Nguyen Thanh Hai, Vietnam’s Trade Counsellor in Bulgaria, noted that Bulgaria could be a gateway for Vietnamese businesses seeking entry into the Southeast European market, while Vietnam offers Bulgarian firms a vital bridge to access the broader ASEAN region.
Gabriela Dimitrova, head of international relations at BCCI, affirmed that the Bulgarian business community is paying close attention to opportunities in Vietnam.
Veteran journalist Maxim Behar, representing the Union of Bulgarian Journalists, praised the industriousness and resilience of the Vietnamese people and described Vietnam as a vibrant and fast-developing economy, deserving its emerging status as a key player in the region.
On the sidelines of the press conference, Bulgarian journalists expressed admiration for Vietnam’s achievements in reform and global integration and voiced a desire to deepen bilateral cooperation across various fields.
Delegates were also invited to visit a photo exhibition on the 75-year relations and taste traditional Vietnamese dishes. The event also featured displays of Vietnamese agricultural products and handicrafts.
The press conference received positive coverage from leading Bulgarian media. Duma highlighted Vietnam’s emergence as a major Asian exporter, while Novinata.bg published an in-depth article chronicling the 75-year journey of bilateral diplomatic ties./.
