Marin Raykov: Bulgaria and Qatar are strategic partners
07 May 2013 News
Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Marin Raykov received a Qatari military delegation led by the Chief of General Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces, Major-General Hamad bin Ali Al – Attia
“Bulgaria and Qatar are strategic partners. Our co-operation in the political and economic spheres embraces specific dimensions and projects. In recent years we have had a very intensive political dialogue that has already yielded positive results,” the Bulgarian Prime Minister said. He outlined the main areas of co-operation, such as investment in transport and infrastructure, increasing trade, investments in the food industry, tourism, energy, education and technology. "Between the two countries, 12 agreements have been signed, in all areas , such as those relating to co-operation in defence and in particular in the field of military medicine,” Marin Raykov said. He dwelt on the prospect of deepening co-operation between Bulgaria and Qatar, which will also be the topic of a meeting at the end of the year of the Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Co-operation.
"Our two countries also share common goals in the Middle East. Security and stability in this region are of crucial importance for Bulgaria and the EU. The continuing violence in Syria, accompanied by a severe humanitarian catastrophe, is unacceptable. Bulgaria supports the efforts of Arab countries and the international community to find a lasting, peaceful and democratic solution to the conflict. We have recognised the Syrian opposition as the legitimate representative of the Syrian people and in this connection, appreciate the support of Qatar for this process,” Bulgarian Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Marin Raykov said.
Major General Hamad al-Attia highlighted the opportunities for co-operation in the field of defence and the defence industry. "Qatar and Bulgaria are two friendly and peace-loving countries that can successfully co-operate in the field of defence and the defence industry. We already have very good examples of co-operation and exchange of experience in the field of military medicine,” the Chief of the General Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces said.