BCCI Discussed the Development of Trade and Economic Relations with the New Ambassador of Bulgaria to Portugal

Elena Shekerletova, newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Portuguese Republic, visited the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and held talks with its President, Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov. The discussion focused on the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries. There are significant opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation, which will be supported by the joint efforts of the Embassy and the BCCI. It was agreed to intensify business contacts between small and medium-sized enterprises from both countries through a range of joint initiatives, including business delegation exchanges, bilateral forums, and B2B meetings.

BCCI has maintained long-standing cooperation with partners in Portugal since 1982, when an Agreement was signed with the Institute for Foreign Trade, Investment and Tourism (ICEP) — now the Portuguese Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade (AICEP). Over the years, numerous joint initiatives have been successfully implemented within the framework of this partnership.

Mr. Simeonov briefed the Ambassador on the wide range of activities carried out by the Chamber in support of the business community, as well as on the advantages of the Unified Voluntary Trade Register maintained by BCCI, its well-developed regional structure, and its network of branch organizations.

According to data from the Bulgarian National Bank, the cumulative foreign direct investment from Portugal in Bulgaria amounts to EUR 27.6 million as of 1 July 2025.