Erdoğan opens NATO diplomacy in Ankara: Trade, energy and border security discussed with Radev

President Erdoğan began his diplomatic talks ahead of the NATO Summit in Ankara. During the meeting at the Presidential Complex, Erdoğan and Radev discussed Türkiye-Bulgaria relations, regional security and economic cooperation.

Erdoğan invites Radev to COP31

According to the statement from the Directorate of Communications, Erdoğan said relations between Türkiye and Bulgaria were progressing in a multidimensional way.

He noted that the two countries were working to improve cooperation in many areas, particularly trade, transport, defense industry and energy.

Erdoğan also said the Turkish community in Bulgaria strengthened ties between the two countries and invited Radev to the COP31 Leaders’ Summit to be held in Türkiye.

Protocol signed between Bulgargaz and BOTAŞ

Following the meeting, Bulgargaz and BOTAŞ signed a protocol freezing the agreement between the two companies for 15 months.

Under the protocol, only the improved capacity terms for the Bulgarian side will be paid. The meeting also underlined the shared interest of both countries in making maximum use of natural gas transmission capacity.

Trade volume reaches 9 billion euros

The leaders also discussed the positive trend in bilateral trade, which has reached 9 billion euros.

Radev emphasized Bulgaria’s aim to attract more value-added investment from Türkiye, while Erdoğan called on the European Union to implement the customs union agreement with Türkiye effectively and in a way that benefits both sides.

Border security and Schengen cooperation

Radev expressed satisfaction over Türkiye’s efforts to strengthen border controls along the shared border.

The Bulgarian side highlighted Türkiye’s contribution to the fight against irregular migration and said cooperation on border security played an important role in Bulgaria’s Schengen process.

Radev was welcomed in Ankara by Trade Minister Bolat.