PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (right) receives Bulgarian Ambassador to Viet Nam Evgueni Stefanov Stoytchev at Government Office on October 4, 2017. Photo: VGP

The Government chief made the statement at reception for Bulgaria’s outgoing Ambassador to Viet Nam Evgueni Stefanov Stoytchev in Ha Noi on October 4.

Despite positive developments, the two countries’ trade ties have yet to match the potentials and expectations of both sides, PM Phuc said, suggesting further enhancement of bilateral cooperation in this field.

The PM expressed his thanks to Bulgaria for having trained thousands of Vietnamese undergraduates and postgraduates over the past years, stating that these learners have been active factors in connecting the two nations’ relationship.

Ambassador Evgueni Stefanov Stoytchev highlighted the long-standing traditional friendship between Viet Nam and Bulgaria, affirming that Bulgaria always stands side by side with Viet Nam.

He spoke highly of the two sides’ coordination at international organizations and forums, whilst thanking Vietnamese ministries, sectors and localities for their support during his working tenure in the country.

Viet Nam has been and will continue to be Bulgaria’s key partner in Southeast Asia, he said, pledging his constant support for Viet Nam as well as his care to deepening Viet Nam-Bulgaria cooperation.

The diplomat agreed that there still remain vast room for both sides to tap in economic and trade cooperation, whilst voicing his hope that the two countries’ businesses will strengthen exchanges to explore opportunities for partnership.