Blanar Discusses Cooperation in Bulgaria and Praises Transit of Russian Gas

Sofia, March 24 (TASR) - Foreign Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) met with Bulgarian representatives on Monday, highlighting the friendly and constructive dialogue based on the historical and cultural proximity of the countries, TASR was told by the ministry's communication department on Monday. High on the agenda of the meetings were strengthening cooperation, business partnership and tourism, as well as support for Bulgaria's accession to the euro area and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). "We're interested in intensive relations with Bulgaria. Our open discussion testifies to the excellent cooperation at the cultural and social levels, for example through the Bulgarian school operating in Bratislava," said Blanar. During his meeting with his Bulgarian counterpart Georg Georgiev, Blanar highlighted the partnership between the two countries within the EU, which he wants to promote "at all levels where we have a common interest". The ministers agreed on the need for closer cooperation on the protection of Schengen borders in the context of illegal migration and on EU defence issues. Blanar and Georgiev also expressed their interest in stepping up mutual activities to promote tourism. Blanar stressed Slovakia's support for Bulgaria's accession to the euro area and the OECD. During his visit, he also met with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev. Blanar thanked his Bulgarian partners for the opportunity to transport purchased Russian natural gas through their territory via the TurkStream pipeline. am