Discover the beauty of Bulgaria: Minister Miloshev’s “Discover and Share” Forum

Sofia: Tourism Minister Evtim Miloshev inaugurated the tourism forum “Bulgaria – Discover and Share” in Istanbul, Turkiye, on September 15, 2024.

The event focuses on strengthening tourism cooperation between Bulgaria and Turkiye, exploring opportunities for joint tourism products. “There is significant potential to further enhance tourism exchange between our countries,” Minister Miloshev noted, highlighting Bulgaria’s popular winter destinations, such as Bansko, which attracted over 53,000 Turkish tourists during the 2023-2024 winter season. He emphasized the potential for even greater numbers in the upcoming season.

Minister Miloshev also proposed creating a joint tourism product that combines the rich history, culture, and culinary traditions of both nations. During his meeting with the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TURSAB), he underscored the interest in establishing shared tourist itineraries. TURSAB reported that Bulgaria ranks highest in demand for Turkish tourists seeking winter and spa resorts.

Efforts are underway to promote Bulgaria as a prime destination among the 25 million residents in regions like Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir, and Çorlu, supported by improved transport connectivity that shortens travel time.

In a separate meeting with Turkish Airlines, discussions focused on expanding tourism opportunities from Turkiye, China, and Japan to Bulgaria. Turkish Airlines expressed its willingness to promote Bulgaria as part of a combined tourism package with Turkiye.