A Bulgarian parliamentary delegation led by Dotsova is on a two-day visit to Rome and the Vatican on the occasion of 24 May, the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, the Bulgarian alphabet, education and culture, and Slavic literature.

“Today’s meeting was a good beginning for having more communication and improving parliamentary relations between Bulgaria and Italy over the next four years. And of course, I invited my colleague to visit Bulgaria so that we can strengthen the next steps in improving relations,” Dotsova told journalists after the meeting.

She said she had expressed gratitude for Italy’s contribution in enabling a Bulgarian delegation every year to pay tribute to Saints Cyril and Methodius, and to properly celebrate 24 May.

Dotsova reaffirmed the strong diplomatic relations between the two countries at both legislative and executive levels, as well as cooperation in the economy, defence, culture and sports. She also thanked Italy for the opportunity for Bulgaria to host the start of the Giro d’Italia cycling race.

“What we mutually discussed and promised each other is to strengthen and improve parliamentary dialogue between the two countries, which can lead to the exchange of good practices and contribute to solving common problems and developing joint policies,” she said.

She noted that Bulgaria and Italy often share similar positions within the European Union on issues such as the next long-term EU budget, preserving cohesion funds and agricultural financing.

Dotsova added that the two sides also discussed international conflicts, including restrictions on shipping, particularly in the region around Iran, which “affect both Italy and Bulgaria and lead to soaring prices, both for oil and in broader pricing effects.” She said they agreed on the importance of preserving peace and ending conflicts as soon as possible.