Rustam Minnikhanov and Bulgaria's Ambassador to Russia Boyko Kotsev discuss new ways to develop cooperation

On October 26, at their meeting in Kazan, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov and Bulgaria's Ambassador to Russia Boyko Kotsev discussed issues of increasing mutual trade turnover, closer cooperation in machine-building, agriculture, petrochemical industry, tourism, and also considered opportunities for cooperation between enterprises.

"There are good opportunities to discuss the state and prospects for the development of cooperation between Tatarstan and Bulgaria as part of Russian-Bulgarian relations," Minnikhanov said in his welcoming speech.

He stressed that Tatarstan and Bulgaria have common history and culture. Tatarstan President continued that a large-scale work is underway in the republic to preserve the historical and cultural heritage. There are three UNESCO World Heritage sites in the republic, including the Kazan Kremlin, the Bolgar Historical and Architectural Complex and the Dormition Cathedral and the Monastery of the island-town of Sviyazhsk.

Minnikhanov added that historical ties are designed to promote the development of bilateral cooperation. "We are interested in establishing contacts with you, especially in the sphere of tourism. In Soviet times, Bulgaria had the best resorts ever. You have a good sea, the required infrastructure and service facilities. Moreover, we have close languages," Tatarstan President said.

In his turn Kotsev said that there are all the necessary treaties and agreements to strengthen cooperation between Tatarstan and Bulgaria. However, he noted the lack of dynamics in the relationship.

"We have decided to come here to establish a dialogue. It is necessary to give a new impetus to intensify further interaction between Bulgaria and Tatarstan," the Ambassador said.