At the meeting, President Rumen Radev recalled his official visit to Vietnam in November 2024 and expressed deep emotion when remembering his gathering in Hanoi with Vietnamese alumni and former workers in Bulgaria, organized by the Friendship Association. He affirmed that Vietnam is not only a traditional friend but also an important partner for Bulgaria in the region. He noted that educational cooperation and cultural exchanges are enduring and solid bridges for augmenting broader co-operation across a variety of fields.

Ambassador Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet expressed appreciation for the President’s interest in people-to-people diplomacy between the two countries. She introduced members of the delegation, many of whom were trained in Bulgaria and later became experts, scientists, and senior officers in Vietnam who made positive contributions to national development and defence. She described them as a valuable asset and an important link in promoting the enduring friendship between Vietnam and Bulgaria.

Le Thu Ha, Chairwoman of the Hanoi Vietnam–Bulgaria Friendship Association, shared recent highlights of the association’s activities. Each year, the association commemorates key Bulgarian holidays, including the Day of Bulgarian Education and Culture and the Slavonic Alphabet (May 24), National Day (March 3), and Students’ Day (December 8). Many members enthusiastically learn traditional Bulgarian songs and dances and cook Bulgarian dishes.

Ha affirmed the association’s commitment to continuing its role as a bridge between the two nations. On this occasion, she called on Bulgaria to expand student exchange programs with Vietnam and to consider easing entry for Vietnamese nationals, particularly those who studied or worked in Bulgaria and now wish to revisit what they regard as their “second homeland.”

Earlier, the Vietnamese delegation also met with some officials from the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Vietnam, Bulgaria work towards substantive and effective cooperation

VOV.VN - The time-honored and close-knit relationship between Vietnam and Bulgaria, built on 75 years of strong ties, continues to grow and flourish based on substantive and effective cooperation, with a view toward a strategic partnership.