Bulgaria and Armenia Sign Strategic Partnership in Yerevan as Leaders Push for Deeper Cooperation

Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership in Yerevan on Sunday, according to the presidential press service. Both sides expressed expectations that Bulgaria’s next government will push bilateral cooperation more actively, pointing to unused potential across several sectors.

The two leaders highlighted what they described as a strong political dialogue and longstanding ties between the Bulgarian and Armenian peoples. They agreed that relations could be significantly expanded, particularly in economy, energy, security, and defense. Pashinyan also thanked Bulgaria for supporting the Armenian community, noting conditions that allow it to preserve its identity and cultural life.

Iotova underlined Bulgaria’s readiness, as an EU member for nearly two decades, to share its experience with Armenia on European integration. Discussions also touched on wider geopolitical developments, including the conflicts in Ukraine and Iran and their broader consequences.

On Monday, Iotova continues her visit in Armenia for the 8th European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, which gathers nearly 50 heads of state and government under the theme “Building the Future: Unity and Stability in Europe.” The forum is co-chaired by European Council President Antonio Costa and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

As part of the summit program, Iotova is expected to speak on the Vertical Gas Corridor, a regional initiative aimed at strengthening energy security and diversifying gas supplies across Southeastern, Eastern, and Central Europe. Her address will focus on transport links and energy connectivity. She is also scheduled to take part in a session on the “European Coalition Against Drugs” and meet Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas on the sidelines.

The Yerevan summit comes amid broader European discussions on security, energy stability, and shifting global alignments. Leaders are expected to focus on what EU officials described as a “360-degree challenge” to European security. The gathering also includes discussions on transatlantic tensions and the impact of global conflicts on energy markets and regional stability.

Iotova also visited a Yerevan school named after Bulgarian poet Peyo Yavorov, reflecting cultural links between the two countries. Separately, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan and Iotova discussed additional avenues for strengthening cooperation and regional connectivity.