He was accompanied by the economic affairs advisor of the embassy and representatives of the Dutch-Bulgarian business organization and the Dutch-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce.
The meeting mainly focused on the construction sector, tourism, transport services, telecommunications, the sewing industry, food production, packaging industry, agricultural machinery, and agriculture. This was reported by the Bulgarian news agency BTA.
In recent years, the Netherlands has developed into one of Bulgaria's major trading partners. The investments made by Dutch companies in Bulgaria not only contribute to the country's economic growth but also bring important technologies and knowledge to Bulgaria.
“For more than ten years, the Netherlands has ranked first regarding direct foreign investment in Bulgaria,” emphasized Bulgarian trade envoy Simeonova, adding that the Netherlands is also an advocate for closer integration of Bulgaria into the EU.
According to Simeonova, there are many opportunities in Vratsa and northwestern Bulgaria to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. “We have the potential for closer collaboration, not only in IT and engineering but also in organic farming, agriculture, and the food industry in general,” stated local officials.
Ambassador Simon van der Burgh said that, in his opinion, there are many business opportunities in this Bulgarian region. He also pointed out that approximately 5,000 Bulgarian students are currently studying in the Netherlands.