Innovation and Digital Transformation Minister Ivan Vasilev met with H.E. Marcello Apicella, Ambassador of Italy, and representatives of Confindustria Bulgaria.
Vasilev presented the ministry’s new structure and vision, noting that two of its main priorities are creating an optimal environment for the development of high-value-added industry in Bulgaria and the digital transformation of the administration, making it faster, easier and more convenient for businesses and citizens. “Our task is to make Bulgaria attractive to investors. We are working actively to reduce the administrative burden,” Vasilev said, adding that Italy is a strategic partner.
Opportunities to deepen cooperation and exchange experience in innovation, digitization, artificial intelligence and other areas were also discussed.
Cybersecurity was a key focus of the meeting, with Vasilev noting that stronger cooperation among member states in this area is important for the European Union. On space technologies, the participants discussed opportunities for companies from the two countries to partner on joint projects.
Vasilev was congratulated on the launch of the Integrated Civil Monitoring and Analysis System (SIGMA). Participants noted that the system is a positive step for transparency and an opportunity to strengthen citizen engagement with the public sector. “Technology and transparency are tools in the fight against corruption. Through SIGMA, we want to encourage competition and make public procurement accessible to more companies,” Vasilev said.
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister Mira Yosifova, Confindustria Bulgaria President Nunziante Coraggio and representatives of the organization. The association comprises nearly 200 Italian companies operating in Bulgaria and providing more than 30,000 jobs across various sectors of the economy.
