Bulgarian PM, Iranian foreign minister Zarif discuss Middle East, co-operation on economic ties
In talks in Sofia on February 28, Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borissov and Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif discussed ways to deepen economic relations between the two countries, and discussed the situation in the Middle East, Borissov’s office said.
At a meeting in the Cabinet building, they noted that the intensification of the political dialogue over the past two years favoured the development of the contacts between Bulgarian and Iranian business organisations, the statement said.
Borissov and Zarif welcomed the fact that a Bulgarian-Iranian business forum would be held in Sofia during the Iranian foreign minister’s one-day visit.
Borissov briefed Zarif on the road, rail, gas and digital infrastructure projects in the Balkans.
The Bulgarian Prime Minister emphasised that the achievement of this connectivity, which is a priority of the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU, is one of the most important conditions for the development of the states and economies in this region.
“The corridors allow for connections, trade, business, tourism between Europe and Asia,” Borisov said, while emphasising the need for peace and stability to achieve the potential of these opportunities.
“What we need is peace. My policy is built entirely on the achievement of peace and stability,” Borissov said.
He voiced concern at the growing tensions in the Middle East region and voiced hope that despite differences, Iran and other countries will find contact points for consultations to get out of the crisis, the sttement said.
“The war in Syria must be stopped by the diplomats and not by the armies,” Borisov said, pointing to the humanitarian consequences of such conflicts.
Borissov and Zarif voiced support for the Joint Comprehensive Action Plan on the Iranian Nuclear Program and underlined the need for its implementation by all parties, the Bulgarian government statement said.
Zarif earlier held talks with Bulgarian President Roumen Radev. He also was scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Ekaterina Zaharieva, with a joint news conference scheduled for the mid-afternoon of February 28.
